New Supported Housing for young people opens in Ashford
A new housing scheme to support vulnerable young people with their transition from care to independent living has opened in Ashford.
Belgic Court, which has been developed by Golding Homes in partnership with Ashford Borough Council, Kent County Council and Sanctuary Supported Living, consists of eight self contained fully furnished one bedroom flats.
Golding Homes recently handed over the keys to Sanctuary Supported Living which will manage the scheme and provide housing related support to the young people. The scheme is available to 16-25 year olds who need additional support to live independently. As part this support they will be taught how to maintain a tenancy, offered assistance with training and job opportunities as well as given help and advice with budgeting and confidence building.
One of the self contained flats has been specially adapted to provide accommodation for those with a disability, with a flush floor shower and height adjustable kitchen. There is also a separate facility which can be used to run training courses, as well as an office space for support staff.
Chris Blundell, Director of Development and Commercial Services said: ““We are delighted to have worked with such committed partners to build this much needed facility for young people moving from care to independent living. We’re confident the project will provide great homes and a good base for our partners to help transform the lives of these young people.”
Cllr Paul Clokie, Ashford Borough Council’s portfolio holder for housing and home ownership, said: “It is welcome news that Belgic Court has been delivered. It’s an important addition to the borough’s provision for younger people who need additional support to live independently – which most of us take for granted. This is something we have long advocated and to know that this is now a reality and not just plans and drawings is very exciting. We will be working closely with Sanctuary Supported Living to identify those who will call this new facility ‘home’.”
The scheme has been constructed to eco homes level three as well as achieving the gold standard in the secured by design scheme endorsed by the Official Police Security Initiative.
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