RNID and New Fylde Housing showcase partnership work » Housing » 24dash.com

The Royal National Institute for the Deaf (RNID) and St Annes-based New Fylde Housing are opening the doors to one of their supported housing schemes to showcase the partnership work being undertaken, that allows deaf or hard of hearing adults to lead an independent lifestyle.

The event, being held on Thursday November 26, forms part of Supported Housing Month North. This is a month long series of activities that aims to shout out about the difference housing associations are making through working with over 165,000 people across the North of England.

Thornton Gate is a supported housing service for eight deaf and hard of hearing adults with a range of learning disabilities and mental health problems. It aims to improve the quality of their lives and reduce the stresses that come with their needs.

The lunch will be hosted by the eight Thornton Gate residents and expected guests include local councilors and representatives from the RNID as well as New Fylde Housing Managing Director Eric Tamanis and Head of Housing Services David Baker.

Guests will be able to chat to the service users and discover just how invaluable schemes like Thornton Gate are.

David Baker said: “Events like this allow us to show that, with the help of a supported living scheme, people with disabilities do have the option of leading a full and independent lifestyle.”

Derek Long, Head of North for the National Housing Federation, said: "Supported housing and floating support services do not currently have the recognition they deserve. Housing associations and other providers working in this field are unsung heroes, making a vast contribution through an enormous variety of services, tailored to meet a wide range of needs. Not only do they enable individuals to enjoy greater independence, improving the quality of life for thousands of people throughout the region, but they are also helping public sector agencies tackle regional priorities and targets.

"Supported Housing Month - North has been aimed at raising awareness, and it has acted as a fantastic showcase for this important work."

The event is starting at 1.30pm and will conclude at 3.30pm.