2024-07-29 16:01:45
Hft leads the way in person-centred care with Ironbridge redevelopment
The redevelopment of a site in Ironbridge to provide state-of-the-art, person-centred homes for learning disabled adults is progressing on schedule. The first of these homes is set for completion by the end of November this year, with the entire regeneration project scheduled for final completion in Spring 2026.
In direct response to the Housing Learning and Improvement Network’s (LIN) 2023 research predicting a shortfall of nearly 35,000 units of supported housing by 2037, leading learning disability charity Hft has partnered with home builder Lioncourt and local commissioners to redevelop the site near Telford, Shropshire.
This ambitious project will transform the existing and dated residential service into a vibrant, mixed development, which has a community-based supported living environment alongside general housing.
The new development, called Heritage Walk, includes 12 co-designed, accessible and adaptable supported living properties specifically allocated to learning disabled adults through Hft. This move underscores Hft’s commitment to delivering excellence in care through an innovative and person-centred model of care.
“LIN’s figures clearly show there is not enough supported living accommodation for learning disabled adults, leading to their increased marginalisation,” explains Steve Veevers, CEO of Hft. “Hft is dedicated to creating opportunities for learning disabled adults to thrive within communities, offering them the independence, choice and control that everyone with a learning disability deserves.”
Hft’s new long-term strategy, ‘Hft 2033: Your life. Your way,’ reflects this dedication to innovation and excellence in care. “This landmark redevelopment allows Hft to transition from a traditional residential model to people having their own homes, tenancies and taking control, enabling us to deliver person-centred care and support to the learning disabled people choosing to live there,” says Steve.
“We have been instrumental in being strong allies and advocates, finding creative solutions to meet the rising demand for supported living accommodation, and our partnership with Lioncourt and the people who lived at Ironbridge previously, exemplifies this approach.”
The Heritage Walk development is designed to foster greater independence and give a real experience of community for its residents. Built in 1987, the original services were clustered on a campus site, isolating residents from the broader community. The new design will incorporate disability-friendly features, including thoughtful use of colour, materials and products, making these homes both attractive and practical and, importantly, person centred and led by the people we support.
Furthermore, the dwellings will be at the forefront of energy efficiency, with an EPC rating of A. They will include advanced renewable technologies such as waste water recovery systems, PV panels and air source heat pumps.
“True supported living is a cornerstone of this redevelopment. It’s about more than just providing a home; it’s about creating a community where learning disabled adults can form meaningful connections, find work and share their talents,” Steve adds.
Abigail, a 35-year-old autistic resident of Forbes Close for the past eight years, typifies the impact of this transformation. After extensive discussions with Hft and Lioncourt, Abigail is excited to move into a new home with her best friend, Joanne, allowing her to further develop her independence. She looks forward to the autonomy of having her own set of keys and individual post box, and is eager to welcome new neighbours and make new friends.
Spaces are still available for those interested in joining this pioneering community. For more information and application details, please visit Hft’s website.
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
–
For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
