Scheme to meet needs of elderly

Proposals for the scheme, which is being taken forward by the Belfast-based Trinity Housing Association, were initially due for consideration this month.

However, the project was delayed after a number of design issues were raised.

“There have been pre-application discussions with the Planning Service and consultation letters have been sent out in relation to the plans,” said Scott Thompson, senior development officer at Trinity Housing Association. “Meetings took place before the July holiday period in relation to some design issues, but the application is due to be submitted in August.”

The Northern Trust is working in partnership with Trinity Housing to provide the scheme for older people from the East Antrim area.

Building work is expected to begin on the existing Greenisland House site in March 2014.

In a statement, the Northern Trust confirmed the facility would provide housing for between 32 to 36 tenants in apartments 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 statement read.

“This scheme is an innovative form of supported housing developed through effective partnership working between the Northern Trust, Trinity Housing Association and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.

“As well as offering housing specifically designed to meet the individual needs of tenants, residents will also receive personal care where appropriate from care staff, and will have the help of housing support workers who will work on-site to promote their independence and help them maintain their own tenancies and social links with the community.”

Una Cunning, Director of Primary and Community Care for Older People’s Services said: “Many older people have told us that they want to continue to lead independent lives with support services available as and when they need them. The new accommodation will provide older people with the choice of living within a close community setting with flexibility about the nature of support they need and the benefits of being a home owner or tenant.”