‘Extra Care’ Offers Supported Living For Elderly

A new scheme known as ‘extra care’ is operating in Enfield and allows hundreds of elderly residents to enjoy independence while having access to care and support in a community-based atmosphere. Skinners Company, in association with Enfield council, has produced 48 purpose-built flats, complete with rails, walking aids and movement sensors and this week they have handed the keys over to senior members of the local community.

Dawn D’Angelo, the estate manager for Hanover Housing, who is managing the site, said that she was looking forward to meeting the new residents. “Care and support staff are looking forward to welcoming new and returning residents and supporting them to live independent and happy lives at Skinners Court,” she told 24dash.com.

Eileen King, 91, had lived in the housing estate before it was rebuilt with the ‘extra care’ systems inside and is now looking forward to returning to her home. She said: “It is everybody’s hope to grow old with dignity yet maintain an interest in one’s surroundings and remain independent as long as possible. The facilities on-site will be of great help to those who would otherwise be housebound.”

Enfield’s cabinet member for adult social services, Councillor Alan Barker, added: “This has been a great partnership resulting in superb living facilities for some of our frailer residents.”Similar systems are being planned for Peterborough, Devon, Cheshire, Lancashire and across the capital.