Exciting new extra care housing scheme officially opened

A ten unit extra care housing scheme for older people was officially opened on Friday 15th February by Dame Denise Platt, DBE.

Cherry Tree House at Moreton, Wirral has been designed to help older people with dementia to remain independent for as long as possible.

The scheme has been developed to include assistive technology, for example door exit sensors to ensure that residents maintain a high level of independent living.

Dame Denise Platt, who is Chair of the Commission for Social Care Inspection, unveiled a garden bench and was given a tour of the scheme before joining the residents in afternoon tea. 

The scheme, which is operated by Rodney Housing with 24 hour care provided by Housing 21, was developed in partnership with Liverpool Housing Trust and Wirral Council.

Key funding for the work was provided by the Housing Corporation.

It brings back into use a derelict building which was vacant for approximately three years.

Cherry Tree House has undergone complete refurbishment with major alterations, including a new build extension to the rear.

The previous use of the block had been 14 units with shared facilities for older people, which is now changed into much better self-contained units with communal facilities.

Housing 21 Chief Executive, Melinda Phillips, said:  “Cherry Tree House gives older people with dementia the opportunity to live independently with the security of round-the-clock on-site care staff. 

“We are pleased to have worked in partnership with Liverpool Housing Trust, Rodney Housing Division and Wirral Council on this very important scheme.”

The generous sized apartments are equipped with an en-suite shower room, a fully fitted kitchen and emergency call facility. They are designed to Lifetime Homes Standard and full Wheelchair Standards.

Wirral Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Inclusion, Councillor Moira McLaughlin added: “Cherry Trees was planned and designed with the specific needs of people with dementia in mind.

“This type of service provides a real alternative to residential care, ensuring that people with dementia continue to have choice and control in their lives”

Each resident has an individual care and housing support plan to maximise their skills and level of independence.

An ongoing programme of activities is offered to residents, designed to stimulate and motivate to sustain their learning and social abilities, so they can stay actively engaged in day-to-day living and decision-making.

Tom Harrison, Managing Director, Rodney Housing said: "Cherry Tree represents a successful partnership between a number of organisations who have provided a home which meets the housing and support needs of the ten individuals who are now living at this scheme.

“Rodney Housing is very proud to be a part of the scheme's success.”

The project will be closely evaluated using various techniques to ensure that the scheme improves the quality of life of residents.