Posted on 3rd Jul
Reach Learning Disability is celebrating the completion of its new supported living accommodation building for 12 people.
It aims to give the tenants in Southwell, and their families, peace of mind for the future and provide opportunities for them to make a good life for themselves in their own chosen community.
The lack of affordable quality housing for people with learning disabilities is a national problem, with many people living in their parental home for most of their adult lives.
When parents cannot provide care anymore, adults with learning disabilities can find that there is no choice but to move to a new area, often losing family, friends, and community in one go.
In 1999 parents of adults with learning disabilities in Southwell saw that the lack of local support would restrict their son or daughter’s opportunity for more independent living.
They founded the charity Southwell Care Project, which later became Reach Learning Disability.
One of their aims was to build a home rooted in the local community. Over the years, the charity’s services flourished and expanded, but achieving the original plan to build accommodation proved elusive.
In 2018, a gift of land and property on a large housing development site in Southwell meant that the plans to build accommodation could become a reality. Innovatively, it was agreed that the proposed build could represent the affordable housing element of the wider development.
During the past five years, the charity has worked tirelessly to bring the plans to fruition, including running a successful fundraising campaign, raising more than £1.5m.
Designed by architects Allan Joyce Architects Ltd and built by C. Ratcliffe Builders Ltd, the finished high-spec build incorporates two linked houses, each accommodating six tenants.
Two ensuite bedrooms are provided for care staff who will provide overnight support.
The project was designed to be net zero carbon in use and utilises eco-technology, including solar panels, air source heating, and underfloor heating. This will help keep maintenance and running costs low, while being environmentally sustainable.
There are gardens with mature trees and Green space for leisure activities. The accommodation is conveniently located for nearby local facilities, and day service activities at Reach Southwell and Flower Pod.
