Open day will showcase innovative new housing in Stafford

New and innovative Flexicare housing schemes offering independence and support will be showcased in Staffordshire.

 Our first event is hosted by Stafford and Rural Homes at Jubilee Court, Edison Road, Stafford on Wednesday, 22 June to show exactly what Flexicare housing schemes have to offer.

 Also known as Extra Care, Flexicare housing is designed specifically for older people and people with disabilities. Each has modern, spacious, self-contained flats, with a shower, kitchen, living room and 1 or 2 bedrooms.  With care and support staff on site, customers can retain their independence in the knowledge they can access help quickly and easily if they need it.

 County Councillor Matthew Ellis, Cabinet Member for Adult Wellbeing said:  “The open days will give be an opportunity for people to see how Extra Care developments like this can be so liberating for those who want to live as independent a life as possible but want 24/7 care and support, if and when it’s needed.

 “Staffordshire is a national leader in the development of Extra/Flexi homes. Because where people live is so important to their quality of life we put in place ambitious plans to increase the number of Extra Care places available to buy or rent across Staffordshire from 430 two years ago to 1500 by 2013.

 “In fact, by then, we envisage that more than 2000 will have been achieved meaning more opportunities for people who want to remain independent in their own home can do so safe in the knowledge that care if needed is available without being intrusive.”

 Sarah Wyke, Head of Independent Living for Stafford and Rural Homes said:  “

 “We are pleased to be hosting this event and welcome the community into Jubilee Court, and I hope it will encourage people to consider the benefits of flexicare now or in the future”.

 The open days are being arranged to coincide with Falls Awareness Week. Every year, around one in three people aged over 65 living in the community and one in two people aged over 85 will have a fall.

 The consequences can be devastating, both physically and emotionally. Falls can cause loss of function, mobility, independence, confidence, and in many cases even death. Research has shown that people living in Flexicare housing are much less likely to fall, and so maintain their independence much longer.

 To find out more about Flexicare in Staffordshire, or for general help and advice on how to live a healthier and more independent life, visit the Staffordshire Cares website at www.staffordshirecares.info