Vulnerable pensioners not being left out in the cold
21 May 2003

Chair Aerobics at Parsonage Place, Curry Rivel (South Somerset Homes)

Following an article published in the Western Gazette entitled ‘Councils deny failure to provide for the elderly' (27 March 2003 page 32) South Somerset Homes and Magna Housing wanted to put the record straight.

They explained that far from ‘vulnerable pensioners being left out in the cold' local housing associations might well have provided a pleasant surprise and an interesting twist to the story. McCarthy & Stone plc are a fine company who provide high quality housing solutions, but only for a minority of older owner occupiers who can afford it.

Leading local housing associations like South Somerset Homes and Magna Housing are the primary provider of housing solutions for the majority of older persons in the areas of South Somerset and West Dorset.

In the two District Council areas, South Somerset Homes and Magna Housing Association have a large number of older persons housing schemes which provide excellent care and health services in partnership with County Councils' Social Services departments and the National Health Service. In the case of South Somerset Homes, we have 54 such schemes and provide caring, independent living for life for about 1600 local citizens

The accommodation at the schemes comprise attractive appartments, flats and bungalows that are self contained with either one or two bedrooms, living room, kitchen and bathroom. Many residents have access to a range of communal facilities including a lounge, dining room, laundry, guest bedroom and specially equipped bathroom. Most schemes have full central heating and PVCu double glazed windows and doors.

Sheltered housing schemes allow the residents to enjoy their own personal security and independence, but if they do need the support, they are able to benefit from care staff based on the scheme and co-ordinated by the Scheme Manager. Residents and their relatives can have peace of mind knowing that schemes have help on hand 24 hours a day via Scheme Managers, Sheltered Housing Officers or through Careline.

Many schemes have a full range of social activities planned through out the year including chair aerobics, bingo, quizzes, coffee mornings and much more. Many residents have lovely gardens that they enjoy looking after. Some residents at schemes are taking part in IT lessons learning how to use a computer and access the Web.

Some housing associations may be able to offer you practical or financial assistance to enable you to move and regardless of your financial situation or current housing situation you could be eligible. If you are under retirement age you may also be eligible.

If you like to find out more please call 01935 404500 for South Somerset Homes or 01305 216000 for Magna Housing.

Gentlemen enjoying his garden, Parsonage Place, Curry Rivel (South Somerset Homes)