Riversmead’s flexicare schemes address the increasing need for older persons’ housing in East Herts

Published by SRedford for Network Housing Group Limited in Communities and also in Housing

Reform of elderly care has been on the political agenda since 1997, but the Government are yet to agree any changes to the reform. With an increasing ageing population and cuts to support and funding for care home places, it is imperative that other avenues are explored to help older people, later on in life.

Analysis by the National Housing Federation, who represents housing associations, shows the population of over 65’s and over 85’s in Hertfordshire will increase by 53% and 119% respectively, by 2033.

Riversmead Housing Association. part of Network Housing Group, has two flexicare housing schemes in Hertford - Bircherley Court located in the town centre and Calton Court in North Hertford.

Flexicare housing is an alternative option for older people to residential care or a care home and can improve choice and quality of life by providing an on-site tailored care and support package, 24 hours a day to meet an individual’s changing needs. Flexicare gives older people the reassurance to continue to live independently in their own home.

Both schemes currently have one and two bedroom flats available for rent to over 55 year olds with medium to high care needs.

Jackie Trundell, Riversmead’s Neighbourhood Services Manager said: “With an increasing ageing population, more of the older residents in our communities will need the right care and support to carry on living independently.

“Our flexicare housing schemes not only offer a tailored care and support service but residents’ benefit from close proximity to all essential services and can be part of a fantastic community, enjoying social activities with friends and neighbours.

“The message to residents considering flexicare as a housing option is ‘your own home, not in a home’.”

Resident Margaret Long relocated to Priory Court, Hertford (the leasehold section of Bircherley Court) from Surrey to be closer to her family. Her story is an example of how flexicare housing offers real benefits to older people.

Margaret unexpectedly fell ill last year so a temporary six-week emergency care package was set up to help her get back to full health. Carers visited four times a day to assist her with getting ready for the day, preparing meals and going to bed, which was extremely reassuring for her family who knew she was being looked after well between their visits.

“I don’t think the carers or staff could have done anything better, I’m really satisfied with the flexicare service,” said Margaret, “I wouldn’t hesitate to use it again, if I needed to.”

For more information about Bircherley Court and Calton Court, please contact Riversmead on 01992 514 514 or visit www.riversmead.org.uk. If you would like to apply for a home at one of our flexicare housing schemes contact the Housing Options Team at East Herts Council on 01279 655 261 or email housingoptions@eastherts.gov.uk

 www.riversmead.org.uk

A member of Network Housing Group - www.networkhg.org.uk