Work starts on bungalows to support independent living

Work has now started to build 13 dementia friendly affordable bungalows in Blyth in a scheme developed by Northumberland County Council.

The bungalows which are to be situated at Lyndon Walk, have been designed to specifically support residents who are living with dementia and Alzheimer's enabling them to live independently in their own home, with support from their spouse, family or carers.

The two bedroomed properties are being built by Advance Northumberland using modern methods of construction and will be available for affordable rent once completed which is expected to be in Spring 2025.

They will be allocated via a special allocations process led by the county council’s Adult Social Care service. The small housing complex will be managed by Northumberland County Council Housing Service staff. Respite care for the spouse will be provided by a new team.

Northumberland County Councillor, Colin Horncastle, Cabinet Member with responsibility for housing said: "This is a really innovative scheme that we are very proud to be delivering. It has been designed to support the needs of the county’s increasing ageing population and support those with dementia to lead a safe and independent life. I know this new development will be an important addition to the local community.”

The development has been designed throughout to suit people with dementia, with features including level access wet rooms and a technology in each bungalow that will allow carers to be seen by the resident on a two-way screen. There will also be smoke and heat detectors that can alert carers and emergency services if needed, signage to aid wayfinding and contrasting colours in the bathroom and hallway doors to help with identification. Outside, there will be a secure sensory garden that is safe and secure for residents to experience. They will also be very energy efficient with the installation of solar panels and air source heat pumps.

Northumberland County Councillor Wendy Pattison, Cabinet Member for Adults’ Wellbeing added: “I am thrilled that this supported living scheme is underway. One complete we will be providing care and facilities of the highest standard so those living with dementia can live in a secure and comfortable environment while still remaining and being part of their local community.”

The bungalows are being built by Advance Northumberland, with the help of funding from Homes England, a government grant funding programme designed to boost the construction of affordable new homes, as well as capital funding from the county council’s Adult Social Care budget to support the delivery of housing to maintain independence.

Photo: Cllr Wojciech Ploszaj, Cllr Wendy Pattison, Paul Errington, Director of Ascent Homes and Cllr Colin Horncastle.