Helm Housing Association and the Northern Health & Social Care Trust this week officially opened the Abbots Court development in Abbots Cross, Newtownabbey. The development, which is made up of 14 self-contained homes for people with learning difficulties, is a supported housing scheme built by Helm Housing with the support of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) and private finance. Abbots Court was officially opened by Liz Cuddy, Chair, Helm Housing Association, who underlined the importance of partnership working between health and housing.
The scheme cost almost £1.7 million and is designed to meet the specific needs of people with learning difficulties. The development has a mix of one and two bedroom self contained units, which include dedicated units for wheelchair users. The facility is managed by the Northern Health & Social Care Trust who provide 24-hour support to the tenants.
Abbots Court is one of a number of schemes which are operated in partnership between Helm Housing Association and various health and social care providers across Northern Ireland.
Speaking at the official opening, Liz Cuddy, Chair, Helm Housing, said: Helm Housing is delighted to see another partnership project delivered in conjunction with the Northern Health and Social Care Trust. Our vision, to build neighbourhoods and create thriving and empowered communities, is truly realised through developments such as Abbots Court which see first class accommodation and support provided to those in need.
Alyson Dunn, Assistant Director of Learning Disability Service at the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, said: Abbots Court is a state-of-the-art facility and shows the value and potential when care providers and housing providers work directly together. Living here has had a hugely positive impact on residents lives and this care model ensures that vulnerable people can feel safe and secure in their homes and neighbourhoods. We look forward to working with Helm Housing in future to ensure the continued success of this project.
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