Sixteen new apartments which allow adults with social care and health needs to live independently have opened in North Tyneside.
The much-needed accommodation based on Oswin Road in Forest Hall has opened in time for Christmas, with eight tenants now preparing to celebrate the festive period in a place of their own.
With 24-hour support provided by charity Community Integrated Care, resident’s are supported to access the community and with any support they need.
The brand-new facility was commissioned by North Tyneside Council to provide independent, self-contained flats for residents living in residential care who were likely to live successfully on their own.
Susan Turnbull was living in residential care in another part of the region before moving into her brand new flat in October 2023 after a referral from her Social Worker Megan.
Speaking of her move she said: “I’ve been living here for two months and I like it, when I first saw it I thought oh this is nice.
“I know I can shut the door and think about life and be on my own and watch the television and do things I want instead of having people around you all day and night.
“The best bit was getting the keys and getting my Christmas Tree and all these lovely things and I’m so pleased and thankful.”
All referrals for Oswin Road are made through North Tyneside Council’s Adult Social Care Team for those requiring support and care.
Cllr Janet Hunter, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at North Tyneside Council, said: “These new flats offer supported accommodation for vulnerable residents to help them to build or regain the skills they need to live independently and live fulfilling, rewarding lives.
“We know that for many, living in residential care and other settings isn’t the right place for them and It’s fantastic to hear from residents how much they are already benefiting from having a place to call their own while still being able to access the support they need each day.
“As a councillor for the ward and with a portfolio for adult social care, I’m delighted with this development and can see first-hand the difference it’s made.”
Two of the flats have been built for accommodate disabled residents, with ramp access, wide doors and corridors and height adjustable benches in the kitchen.
The flats come furnished with essentials including a bed, washing machine and fridge freezer and all residents have access to a communal outdoor space.
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