Local Man Praises New Extra Care Scheme

Published by 792 for Housing 21 in Housing and also in Communities, Health, Local Government

A NEW Extra Care housing scheme for older people was officially opened yesterday with the presentation by Councillor Mel Speding, of a commemorative plaque, followed by a short clarinet recital from resident, John Young.

Bramble Hollow in Hetton-Le-Hole, which received £1.2 million in funding from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), provides 48 purpose-built apartments for the over 55s along with on-site care and support services. The £7.1 million Housing 21 development also features a restaurant, shop, hairdressing salon, activity room and treatment room.

Receiving the plaque on behalf of the tenants was 93 year old Mr Isaac Storey, one of the first residents to move in with his wife, Ann. Isaac was born in the Travellers Rest pub, just up the road from Bramble Hollow in Easington Lane. He worked as a training instructor in the local mines for most of his working life and was captain of the first aid team at the pit. He went on to become an Officer Brother with St Johns Ambulance and was one of the last people to be awarded the British Empire Medal for services to First Aid in the Mines.

Isaac always said that when he retired he would want to return to Easington Lane. From his second floor apartment, he now has a clear view ‘up the Lane’ to the old familiar sights. Commenting on his new home, he says: “Moving here was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made and, trust me, I’ve made some good ones in my time!  It’s the peace of mind that’s best.”

Mary Bryce, head of strategic area services for Housing 21, said: “Bramble Hollow is an excellent example of how extra care living can bring huge benefits, both to residents and to the local community.  It’s a real alternative to residential care, allowing people to continue enjoying their independence but with help on hand if needed.”

The two bedroom apartments for rent or shared ownership have been built to wheelchair mobility standards and benefit from under-floor gas central heating, walk-in showers and fully fitted kitchens.  

Councillor Mel Speding, Sunderland City Council Portfolio Holder for Healthy City, said: “Bramble Hollow, along with the other extra care schemes which have already opened in Sunderland, is a fantastic example of the improving options of modern day living for older people.

“Residents have their own apartments and as a result can continue to maintain their independence, which we know is extremely important to them. However, care and support is still available should they need it, and this peace of mind is priceless.”

Bramble Hollow, which is named after the Anglo Saxon term for the area, was developed in partnership with Sunderland City Council, Frank Haslam Milan (FHM) North East and the Homes and Communities Agency. Bramble Hollow is the third extra care scheme in Sunderland to be provided through the partnership, following earlier developments in Silksworth and Washington.

“A well-designed extra care scheme like Bramble Hollow can provide both privacy and the benefits of a real community, making retirement years much more enjoyable,” said Michelle Bell, investment and regeneration manager at the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). “Our role is to help councils like Sunderland and housing providers like Housing 21 to make things happen in their own communities, and this scheme is a great example of that local approach in action.”

“FHM North East is proud to be delivering this project,” said David Mellor, managing director of FHM North East, “Extra care schemes such as Bramble Hollow play a major role in supporting local communities, allowing people to maintain their independence. People like Isaac just show how important these projects are. We are delighted to be involved in another important scheme for the city.”