Newcastle’s new homes come with care and support

Care and support are all part of the service at a new housing development opened in Newcastle.

Newcastle City Council leader Nick Forbes was on hand for the launch of 17 new supported homes at Station Court, which will provide high quality accommodation for people with low level support needs.

The new homes, which have been part-funded by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), are in the Walkergate area of the city.

The scheme is the latest in a series of local developments supported by the Homes and Communities Agency, which is also backing the regeneration of Scotswood and plans for a community trust to revitalise the nearby Byker estate.

The properties - 12 spacious supported flats and five bungalows - will be owned by Leazes Homes, a charitable subsidiary of Your Homes Newcastle (YHN). They will be managed by YHN, with the first tenants expected to move in within weeks.

Facilities on site are designed to encourage interaction between tenants and support the delivery of flexible care and support services. YHN will provide CCTV monitoring and a 24-hour on-site carer service.

Bill Midgley, chair of Leazes Homes, said: “We’re committed to providing homes and support to vulnerable groups in our society. Earlier this year, we launched homes at Jubilee Court in Gosforth that cater for young families and bungalows at Afton Way in Kenton specifically designed to meet the needs of older tenants.”

Councillor Helen McStravick, Newcastle City Council’s deputy cabinet member for housing, said: “The Council is committed to ensure that every resident can achieve their full potential. This includes supporting people’s needs whether it be a home of their own, skills, or even a job. We are delighted to be working with Leazes Homes on this well-designed scheme that will allow people from the local area to live independently.”

A further Leazes Homes development for people with support needs, in nearby Shieldfield, is currently underway through contractor Frank Haslam Milan, with completion expected in December.