£440k housing scheme opened in Antrim

The new scheme, known as The Lodge, will accommodate six adults who will each have their own en-suite bedroom facilities with communal living, kitchen and dining areas. Staff from the Northern Health and Social Care Trust will provide 24 hour on site support to help residents develop and maintain their independence.

The Department for Social Development has contributed £303,000 to the scheme, with Choice Housing contributing £137,000 through private borrowing. Speaking after a tour of the facilities, Social Development Minister Mervyn Storey said: “This new scheme is a fine example of what can be achieved when organisations work in partnership. This is a first class facility which has enabled residents to make the successful transition from long term residential care into a more independent way of living with integration into the local community.

“My aim is to provide and fund good quality, affordable homes for those in housing need and ensure that these homes meet the needs of tenants. This latest scheme demonstrates that commitment, and will enrich the lives of all who live here.

“Everyone involved in the development of this new scheme should be rightly proud of what they have achieved. Instead of residing in a hospital ward, the tenants of The Lodge now have a place to call home and I wish them all well for the future.”

Timothy Quin, Chair of Choice Housing Association said: “Choice have worked in close partnership with the Department for Social Development, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s Supporting People Team to provide this exciting new refurbishment project. The building has been reconfigured to enable more independence for tenants to live in a homely, convenient setting within the community. We hope the tenants enjoy their new home and we wish them many happy years here.”