A new purpose-built bungalow for six adults with physical and learning disabilities, coupled with a sensory impairment, was officially opened last month in Castle Vale by Family Housing Association (Birmingham) Ltd, Eastern Birmingham Primary Care Trust and Elizabeth FitzRoy Support.

The bungalow is situated in an area that has seen extensive regeneration in recent years and is within close proximity of local shops, leisure centres, doctors, dentists, and a health centre. The residents will be provided with 24-hour, 7 days a week support and will need help with all activities of daily living. They will also need help to pursue their hobbies and leisure interests such as horse riding, swimming, visiting local parks, pubs and restaurants.

The home comprises of six bedrooms with en-suite, a specialist assisted bathroom, kitchen, dining room, lounge, quiet room, office, staff sleep-in room and a large laundry. A private garden with seating area and water feature is available to the side and rear of the property.

David Hannon, Family Housing’s Director of Operations, said ‘This has been an exciting and unique opportunity for Family and adds to our impressive portfolio of supported housing schemes across Birmingham, which makes up 10% of our housing stock. The six residents moving into the home are from various community bungalows on the Brooklands Hospital site and they have chosen all the fixtures, fittings, colours and carpets, ensuring that their needs have been kept at the forefront of proposals. With this in mind we are confident that the new residents will enjoy and benefit from their new home.’

Using private finance and £230,000 funding from Eastern Birmingham PCT, Family Housing Association built the £850,000 scheme in partnership with Chase Norton Construction, Walker Troup Architects and employers agent, Walker Cotter. There were also a host of people overseeing the development including members from South Birmingham PCT, North Warwickshire PCT, occupational therapists and Elizabeth FitzRoy Support, who are the care providers at the home.

Steve Jenkin, Chief Executive of Elizabeth FitzRoy Support said ‘The building provides a wonderful environment and I am confident that we will provide an equally high standard of care and support to the tenants at Sopwith Croft. We have recruited a fantastic team of highly dedicated and experienced staff whose constant aim will be to meet the individual needs, wants and aspirations of each of the tenants. ‘

Paul Sabapathy CBE, Chairman, Eastern Birmingham PCT said ‘The Sopwith Croft Development clearly demonstrates, the PCT'S commitment to provide in the community, the best possible care for our population with Learning Disability. This excellent facility in Castle Vale demonstrates how the Public Sector can build a high quality care facility on time, and on budget. Our thanks to all the NHS staff, and staff at Family Housing Association, Chase Norton Construction, Walker Troup Architects, Walker Cotter, Elizabeth FitzRoy Support and Castle Vale Housing Action Trust who have  made this development a resounding success for the benefit of our clients.’