Peabody's Darwin Court nominated for Neighbourhood Award » Housing » 24dash.com

Peabody Trust’s Darwin Court has been recognised by the National Housing Federation as one of the three leading schemes in the UK to provide independent living for older people.

Darwin Court was nominated in the Independent Living and Older People category of the National Housing Federation’s Neighbourhood Awards 2008. The Peabody Trust estate was shortlisted from a list of thousands, alongside two other hopefuls.

Judged by tenants from across the country, the Neighbourhood Awards are not only unique but highly respected in the housing sector.

Darwin Court is a dynamic community hub in south London. Built in 2003, Darwin Court was London’s first development devoted to the housing, employment, training, health and leisure needs of over-50s. Five years later, Darwin Court is still recognised as being ahead of its time for combining innovative housing solutions with inclusive community services. 

Centre Manager at Darwin Court, Julia Rose-Weir said: "There is little that provides more job satisfaction than seeing tenants that are able to remain happy in their own home with control over their lives. It is great to hear the positive comments we get from tenants about what a difference having a flat here has made to their lives."      
 
Winners will be announced at a gala dinner and awards ceremony on Thursday 18 September by this year’s celebrity host, Lorraine Kelly from GMTV. One overall winner is selected from among the category winners by a panel of experts.

Ms Rose-Weir said: "There are no other schemes quite like Darwin Court. It is not just about bricks and mortar but also about the environment we provide for our both our tenants and service-users.

"The needs of those living there have clearly been paramount in the design process and the feedback from older people in the consultation process has been taken on board.

"There are many small touches that make a big difference to the people who live there and the community who use the resource centre. Overall the building has a welcoming feel and offers something for everyone."