The learning disability charity Hft is working with Lioncourt Homes to redevelop a housing site in Telford to provide a host of new homes for people with learning disabilities.
The site will hold a total of 80 new homes, with 12 of them becoming accessible and adaptable supported living dwellings for people supported by Hft.
Hft’s CEO Kirsty Matthews says the homes will enable people with learning disabilities to live “a more independent life through greater choice and control.”
Currently, Hft provides support for 33 adults with learning disabilities at the site in Ironbridge, Telford. However, it is a campus-style site which feels detached from the local community.
Ms Matthews says the redevelopment will therefore help residents to build “meaningful connections and relationships with other residents and the wider community.”
The homes have been designed following discussions with current residents and their families, and will bring a much-needed update to the original services which were built in 1987.
The interior has been carefully designed so that each home is dementia and autism friendly, while also being attractive, homely and practical for people with learning disabilities.
The redevelopment will include fully accessible and sustainably designed houses and bungalows, with each home complete shared communal spaces and kitchens, private gardens and parking.
One resident at the service says they are “excited” for the redevelopment, while another said they are looking forward to watching their new home being built from start to finish.
Hft has worked with the Local Authority and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to ensure the redevelopment aligned with their future commissioning strategies and the Homes England’s strategic objectives.
The objectives stipulate that new homes must be high-quality and in well-designed places that reflect community priorities by taking an inclusive and long-term approach.
Ms Matthews said: “These new supported living, accessible homes are in tune with our future strategic aims where we will work in partnership with learning disabled people to live where and how they choose within their local communities.
“Hft is striving to provide a fully inclusive environment that supports people to live as independently and safely as possible. Our interior design, including the use of colour, materials and products, will be dementia and autistic friendly, making these dwellings attractive, homely and practical for learning disabled people.”
