Pensioners Get Extracare Due to Project

A GROUND-BREAKING project to give elderly people in the Vale more independence was praised by Gwenda Thomas, Deputy Health and Social Services Minister.

Ms Thomas was in Barry on a fact-finding mission to learn more about the “extracare” housing scheme.

She visited Cartref Porthceri Home for the Elderly in Salisbury Road, Barry, where she chatted to residents and staff. It also provided her with an opportunity to view the proposed site, currently used as office accommodation and as a base for the Youth Offending Service.

Providing an alternative to a care home, extracare housing allows older people to live more independently within their own self- contained homes and with varying levels of care and support. This can include appropriate staff, communal, hobby and computer rooms, restaurant and dining rooms, health and fitness facilities and library services.

The development will include 40 units to rent and will be funded through National Assembly grant and the Hafod Care Association.

Ms Thomas said: “The introduction of extracare housing will enable providers to better ensure that older people retain and expand their independence in a suitable and safe environment. I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to talk and listen to local stakeholders.”

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