New bungalow provides quality housing for adults with learning disabilities

Three adults with a learning disability have been given the keys to their new home in Shrewsbury.

First Choice Housing Association, in partnership with Shropshire Council and Kitwe Construction Limited, has developed the new build property to meet the individual needs of four adults with learning disabilities.

Previously the new tenants had been living in a nearby residential home for adults with a learning disability, whereas they can now enjoy their own bespoke living space which meets their everyday living needs. They will soon be joined by another tenant. This supported living model offers a secure tenancy agreement, providing reassurance for both them and their families.

The newly built property, designed by the Pentan Partnership, includes specialist equipment to assist the tenants and support staff in their day-to-day living. This includes specialist baths, height adjustable sinks to accommodate wheelchair access and hoists to assist with movement around the home.

When demolishing the original building, Kitwe were also able to give the conservatory from the site to the neighbouring school, rebuilding it at the school at the builder’s own expense.

The new property funded entirely using First Choice’s private finance, means the adults can live more independently in their local community while enjoying their own space.

Hilary Ryan, First Choice Chief Executive said:

“This is the eighth property that First Choice has delivered in partnership with Shropshire Council and we hope the new tenants will settle in well and enjoy their new home. First Choice is keen to pursue more accommodation options for people with a learning disability with Shropshire Council and strengthen the partnership even further.”

Councillor Keith Barrow, leader of Shropshire Council said:

“I was honoured to officially open this property and see the huge difference it is already making to the lives of the tenants and their families.

“This demonstrates what can be achieved by working in partnership and I hope together we can continue to provide more homes in the area for some of our most vulnerable adults.”

Councillor Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for disability, added:

“We are working to provide support for people with learning disabilities which enables them to live independent, fulfilling lives in their own communities and ensures each person is treated as an individual.

“Increasing opportunities for people with learning disabilities to have a home of their own is a crucial part of this and recognises what people have told us is important to them.

“More supported living opportunities are being developed, with properties recently being opened and under construction. We look forward to continuing to build on our partnership with First Choice and are committed to identifying more potential sites with all our partners to use for such developments.”

First Choice Housing Association works across Wales and in Shropshire to provide bespoke accommodation solutions for people with a learning disability. The Association, which celebrates its 25th year in 2013, currently has 160 properties providing homes to over 450 individuals.