Open days will showcase innovative new housing in Cannock

New and innovative housing schemes offering independence and support will be showcased in Cannock and Perton.

Vine Court on Earlswood Way off Walkmill Lane in Cannock will be throwing open its doors on June 22 from 10am to 4pm and Corsers Court in Severn Drive, Perton will be throwing open its doors on June 24 to show exactly what Flexicare housing schemes have to offer.

Also known as Extra Care, Flexicare housing is designed specifically for older people and people with disabilities. Each has modern, spacious, self-contained flats, with a shower, kitchen, living room and 1 or 2 bedrooms. With care and support staff on site, homeowners can retain their independence in the knowledge they can access help quickly and easily if they need it.

County Councillor Matthew Ellis, Cabinet Member for Adult Wellbeing said: “The open days will give an opportunity for people to see how Extra Care developments like this can be so liberating for those who want to live as normal a life as possible but want 24/7 care and support, in the background, if and when it’s needed.

“Staffordshire is a national leader in the development of Extra/Flexi homes. Because where people live is so important to their quality of life we put in place ambitious plans to increase the number of Extra Care places available to buy or rent across Staffordshire from 430 two years ago to 1500 by 2013.

“In fact, by then, more than 2000 will have been achieved meaning more opportunities for people who want to remain independent in their own home can do so safe in the knowledge that care if needed is available without being intrusive.”

Jo Grainger Head of Care and Support at Care Plus said: “At Care Plus we believe in making sure care is tailored to individual needs so residents can live their life to the fullest extent - feeling supported whilst at the same time retaining their independence.

The open day will not only give people the opportunity to see what Vine Court and Corsers Court have to offer but also a chance to meet our team of experienced staff, who we’ve hand-picked for their skill and passion for providing the best possible care.”

The open days are being arranged to coincide with Falls Awareness Week. Every year, around one in three over-65s living in the community and one in two people aged over 85 will have a fall.

The consequences can be devastating, both physically and emotionally. Falls can cause loss of function, mobility, independence, confidence, and in many cases even death. Research has shown that people living in Flexicare housing are much less likely to fall, and so maintain their independence much longer.

To find out more about Flexicare in Staffordshire, or for general help and advice on how to live a healthier and more independent life, visit the Staffordshire Cares website at www.staffordshirecares.info.