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Video reveals how vulnerable local older people’s lives are improved

18 August 2017
two women

A new video filmed at Rosebank Park in Harwich reveals how vulnerable older people in Tendring have seen their quality of life improve dramatically after moving to a new Independent Living home.

An innovative partnership between Essex County Council (ECC), Tendring District Council (TDC), Ashley House, a social housing developer, and One Housing, a not-for-profit care provider has helped to create 130 new Independent Living homes in Harwich and Walton.

Rosebank Park, in Harwich, and Beaumont House, in Walton, enable local people aged 55 or over with a care need to continue to live in a home of their own independently, with the benefit of 24 hour emergency support on-site.

In addition to how vulnerable older people’s quality of life has improved, the video also reveals:

  • The challenges faced by the councils to find housing solutions for older people that meet their changing needs in later life
  • How the councils worked with Ashley House to find a location, design, develop and fund the new homes in Tendring
  • How One Housing’s approach to providing care and managing the new homes – through its Season brand - is helping people play a more active role in their communities.

Doreen Rutson-Kemp is a resident at Rosebank Park. She said: “I saw it being built, but never imagined it was going to be anything like this. Everybody is so helpful, the people living here and the staff. There’s always something to do. I’m living a different way of life because of the people I’ve met.”

Cllr John Spence, Cabinet Member for Adult Health & Social Care, ECC, said: “As a public body it is important we spend taxpayers’ money wisely, on issues that matter to our residents – like having somewhere safe, pleasant and supportive to live in later life.”

Paul Honeywood, Cabinet Member for Housing, TDC, said: “We are very fortunate to have two sites providing this added choice of Independent Living homes within our District. Working with ECC and One Housing has made this possible and I am sure that many vulnerable residents will benefit.”

Tony Walters, Chief Executive, Ashley House, said: “These schemes demonstrate how the public and private sectors can work effectively together to provide solutions for both the UK’s housing crisis and the challenges surrounding our ageing population. We wish the residents a long and healthy life in their new homes”.

Kevin Beirne, Group Director of Housing Care and Support at One Housing, said: “Both Rosebank Park and Beaumont House are great examples of Season schemes that give older people a great lifestyle, reduce isolation and allow people to live independently for longer.”

Independent Living housing is sometimes referred to as Assisted Living or Extra Care. It is seen as a positive alternative to residential care homes for people who can continue to live independently in later life.

To be eligible to live at Rosebank Park or Beaumont House an individual must be aged 55 plus, a resident in the Tendring District Council area, and have a care need requiring at least six hours of care per week.

Enquire now!