Greenisland Stakeholder Group helps shape the future of supported living

Greenisland Newsletter

A group of people from the Newtownabbey area are working with the Northern Trust to help shape a new supported living facility in Greenisland.

Greenisland Stakeholder Group was set up to work in partnership with residents of those living in Greenisland House and their families while the Trust was planning for the provision of services for older people in the East Antrim area. Regular meetings with the group have taken place allowing the Trust to listen to and take on board the views of the members to make sure it provides the right accommodation, care and support for older people.

Mrs Joan Cosgrove, former chair of Newtownabbey senior citizens forum is a member of Greenisland Stakeholder Group. She said: “Working in partnership with the stakeholders group and the Trust allows me to put forward ideas and suggestions for the Greenisland project. I always feel that my views are listened to and that my contribution to the project is valued.”

The supported living facility will provide housing for between 32 to 36 tenants in apartments that are specifically designed to meet their individual needs. These are people who have been assessed as having complex needs, and who require more care and support than that which is available in, for example, sheltered accommodation. The accommodation is funded by the Department of Social Development and work is due to begin on the site in March 2014.

Supported living offers frail and older people the opportunity to achieve greater independence and be supported to take on the responsibilities of having their own home. Older people will be supported to maintain the tenancy of their new home, develop or maintain their daily living skills such as help with shopping, cooking and cleaning. Staff will also be on hand to help them manage their money and advise them about claiming benefits which they are entitled to. Staff will also assist with making sure buildings are secure at night and maintaining safety inside the such as keeping an eye on visitors to the homes.

The Northern Trust is working in partnership with Greenisland Stakeholder Group, Trinity Housing Association and Supporting People and is committed to a model of care where older people are encouraged to live independently for as long as possible. Supported living may not be suitable for all frail and older people. Anyone who requires residential or nursing home care will still be provided with this care through the independent sector.

29th August 2013