The Windermere Supported Living Service will provide four new bungalows, with a common room attached, which will accommodate up to 10 residents with severe learning disabilities, who previously lived in Muckamore.
The buildings have been designed to the very highest standards with an impressive array of energy saving, design and security features. It shows how people with learning difficulties can live constructive lives in a community setting.
Margaret Ritchie said: “I am delighted to provide the capital funding to bring this scheme to fruition. When I launched the New Housing Agenda just over a year ago, I looked forward to the delivery of housing opportunity and choice for all members of society. Why shouldn’t our most vulnerable citizens have the opportunity to live the ordinary lives that most of us take for granted?
“Poor housing, housing insecurity and homelessness have been shown to have a profound impact on mental illness. That is why I will continue, through the Social Housing Development Programme, to promote supported housing which in turn promotes social inclusion to those with a mental health problem or a learning disability. Suitable accommodation is a fundamental element of the services required to support those who most need our help.”
In praising the partnership approach between the housing, health and charity sector agencies to get the scheme off the drawing board and onto the ground, she said: “This joint approach has resulted in accommodation that provides maximum independence for all those living in Windermere. The result is a success story and new and better lives in an ordinary community setting.”
The scheme is a partnership between Triangle Housing Association, Positive Futures, the Housing Executive, Health and Social Care Trusts and the Eastern Health and Social Services Board. Funding is provided by the Department for Social Development and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.
Note to Editors:
- Triangle Housing Association is one of 32 housing associations registered with the Department for Social Development. It provides accommodation and a range of services to support people with complex needs.
- Positive Futures is a Northern Ireland charity that develops and provides innovative community-based services for people of all ages with a learning disability. It provides Supported Living, Adult Placement and Family Services.
- Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9468. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
