First resident sets up home in Wallingford’s new extra care housing scheme

Extra care housing is designed for older people so that they can independently rent or part-buy their own home but at the same time have access to round-the-clock care.

The Millcroft development has been built by Season - part of One Housing - in partnership with Oxfordshire County Council and South Oxfordshire District Council.

Nancy’s husband was in the RAF and was posted many times during his career which meant Nancy and her two children lived in a variety of homes, including in Germany and in Rhodesia, (now Zimbabwe).

Nancy’s move to Millcroft went smoothly and she now feels settled and well looked after. She said: “I especially like the wide corridors and doorways so that I can easily move round the flat and into the communal areas. Where I previously lived was not nearly as spacious. There is ‘no comparison’ in terms of space.”

There are 20 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom spacious and modern apartments available to rent at Millcroft for over 55s who receive a high care needs package and a further ten available for purchase under shared ownership.

The development includes a communal dining area, a licensed bar and a garden and will be based at Tumim Court – a 15 minute walk from Wallingford’s shops.

Councillor Lawrie Stratford, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “We’ve a great track record of creating extra care housing in Oxfordshire, working with the district councils and housing providers.

“Many years ago extra care housing did not exist to any great degree and the choice was between people staying in their own home or going in to a care home. Extra care housing offers the best of both worlds and we’re proud that it is such a common feature of life now in the county.

“As is the case in so many other locations in Oxfordshire, people can live in their own apartment and receive personal care and practical support from care staff who are on site at all times. I look forward to seeing Millcroft thrive.”

Kevin Beirne, Group Director of Housing Care and Support at One Housing, said: “In Oxfordshire, we have worked with County and District councils to meet a clear need for homes that help people enjoy their independence in their later years with our professional care on site. Millcroft is a great example of Season schemes that give older people a great lifestyle, the option to stay in their community and remain independent for longer.

If you would like to make further inquiries about the development contact Joanna Fisher on 033 00 535 121 or 07748 182822.