Don't miss your chance of golden days (From Warrington Guardian)

Don't miss your chance of golden days

SOME older people in St Helens could be missing out on the retirement of a lifetime because they don't know that they can apply to live at a brilliant new village being built especially for them.

Reeve Court Village Manager, Lesley Blowers is referring to local residents, over 55, who are eligible for, or receiving care support from St Helens Social Services. Lesley says some people in this group may be living in their own home, in residential care, or even in a nursing home. She says the Village could offer them up to 75 spaces when it opens this autumn.

"Currently we have over 500 applications to join the Village but would welcome more from older people receiving care locally." Sher said. We specifically held back these spaces for those needing help with washing, dressing, domestic tasks, or even 24-hour support."

ExtraCare, which is developing the Village in partnership with St Helens Housing Association and the Council, says each person receiving support will have a dedicated Resident Support Worker (RSW) who will talk to them about their individual needs on a regular basis.

She continues: "ExtraCare's philosophy is that staff should support the 'whole person'. Through their RSW, each resident will have access to an integrated team of familiar faces, whether it's the fitness instructor, activities manager, social organiser or well-being nurse.

"By taking a holistic approach to older peoples' support, the Charity often finds that residents overall health starts to improve and they become more independent of the very support that is available to them."

"In reality, what often emerges is that those people who are 'least able' become the most determined and lead the way when it comes to trying new challenges, whether it's learning to walk, joining social outings or even trying extreme sports."

John Payne, Partnership Director at The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, comments: "The 'affordability' of living in this Village could be a concern for potential residents but they shouldn't worry. "They will be able to use their Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance and other benefits to support their care and housing at Reeve Court.The Village will be affordable to anyone who is only in receipt of a state retirement pension with minimal savings."

He also says the Village offers a real opportunity for homeowners with limited resources: "Older, frail, people who are home owners with small savings often worry that they will lose their property to pay for residential care. If you buy a property in the Village, it cannot be sold to pay for your support and will remain yours."

Application forms to join the Village are still available. Call Sharon Ferguson on 0151 426 8862, if you would like to apply.