Affordable homes for up to 59 older people with care needs
A year and a half ago it was an empty site without a name, inhabited only by a few slow worms*. Now it’s taking shape as affordable homes for up to 59 older people or couples with care needs.
When it opens in the spring of next year, Meadowcroft Lodge in the Pond Meadow area of Guildford will welcome eligible Surrey residents over 55 who need everyday social care support. The mix of one and two-bedroom apartments will be offered to people who are most in need of an affordable-rent home.
Partners involved in the project recently came together to mark a traditional – and literal – high point of the building. The ‘topping out’ ceremony celebrated the highest point of the build. Attention now turns to the fitting out of its interior
Classed as extra care housing, the development is a partnership between Surrey County Council and Places for People. Places for People are the UK’s leading social enterprise and already run similar homes in other parts of the country. Costing £23m, building work is being helped by a grant from Homes England.
Making independent living possible
Extra care housing is designed for people with ongoing care needs who want to continue to live as independently as possible. In the case of Meadowcroft Lodge, people can be helped with everyday tasks like bathing or dressing. This and other planned support will be provided by Apex Prime Care, who will also offer an onsite 24/7 emergency response service.
As well as their own self-contained apartments, residents will have access to communal facilities. A café and hairdresser will be open to neighbours from the local area.
Technology is increasingly helping provide better care to people and Meadowcroft Lodge will be no different. Small video units in each flat will enable residents to quickly contact the onsite staff. They will even allow calls to friends on other floors and give visitors access to the building.
The development forms part of the council’s wider Right Homes Right Support strategy. The strategy aims to expand specialist housing options that help people live independently for longer. A further seven extra care housing sites – three in the west and four in the east - have secured outline planning approval.
You can find further details of Meadowcroft Lodge on the Places for People website.
* And in case you’re wondering, the slow worms have long since been captured and rehoused. So local gardeners can continue to enjoy benefits from these harmless slug-eating reptiles.
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