13 Aug 2007
An innovative 'indoor village' in South East Wales, designed to give older people the friendly atmosphere of a traditional neighbourhood whilst also providing them with access to around the clock specialist care and support, has won a leading UK healthcare title.
Cefn Glas Extra Care housing scheme in Blackwood encompassing accommodation and facilities such as a restaurant, shop and beauty salon, has won the title of 'Best Independent Living Scheme' in the national Healthcare Design Awards. The annual awards are jointly organised by specialist healthcare consultancy Pinders and Caring Business magazine.
The 42-flat facility was created by Newport-based housing development agent, Fairlake Properties, part of the Seren Group, in partnership with Caerphilly County Borough Council. Aimed at increasing choice for older people by offering access to independent and supported living, Cefn Glas was the only Welsh entry to gain an award.
Don and Lyn Cuff, 88 and 85 respectively, were interviewed by Pinders as part of the award evaluation process, and were the first residents to move into the facility. Don said: “Before moving into the flat at Cefn Glas, we owned a bungalow locally and enjoyed being able to live independently and socialise with friends and neighbours. We realised that we wouldn't be able to manage by ourselves without any support in the long-term, and Cefn Glas has provided us with the same sense of community and belonging as well as any care and support we've needed. We really enjoy the freedom Cefn Glas offers us”.
The scheme, which officially opened in February 2005, is managed by Charter Housing Association, with 24 hour on-site care and support services provided by REACH. Both organisations are also part of the Seren Group.
Amanda Davies, Chief Executive of the Seren Group, expressed delight at winning the award for the first scheme of its kind to be developed by Fairlake. Ms Davies, explained: “Older people often become isolated living alone or lack the social interaction and sense of community they once enjoyed. The facility offers residents freedom to go about their day-to-day lives, whilst also providing a safe and supportive environment – we're thrilled to win this award.”
The development, designed by KWL Architects of Newport, consists of one and two bedroom self contained flats, which open onto a central airy atrium running the entire length of the building. It also provides residents with a wealth of facilities traditionally found within a community, as well as access to a computer lounge and large day care centre.
Philip Lewis, Partnering Director of KWL Architects based in Newport, the company which nominated the scheme for the award, commented: “We are delighted to have been involved with the Cefn Glas scheme developed by Fairlake and Caerphilly County Borough Council, and congratulate them on their forward vision and desire to create 'something special' in terms of provision of care for older people.“
Jon Chapman, Director of Healthcare Pinders, said: “Each year, we receive quality entries from companies across the UK, within both the public and private sector. The Cefn Glas Extra Care scheme proved successful above other entries in the category as it used an innovative and modern design to create a 'community' within four walls, which fostered neighbourly interaction and offered all the facilities needed to support independent living.”
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