Newcastle Labour has invested £2 million to help disabled and older residents adapt their homes and remain independent in their own communities.
The investment in Disabled Facilities Grants is part of Labour’s wider commitment to ensure residents have homes that meet their needs at every stage of their lives.
Newcastle City Council’s 2014/15 accounts show £2 million was invested through the programme during the year, supporting adaptations to homes across the city.
Labour believes that where residents want to remain in their own homes, the council should do what it can to help make that possible.
For an older or disabled resident, relatively straightforward alterations can make a major difference to everyday life. Adaptations can improve access into and around a property, make bathrooms and other essential facilities easier to use and reduce some of the barriers that can prevent people living independently.
The £2 million programme means Labour is investing directly in existing homes as well as building new ones.
It forms part of a much wider housing programme being taken forward across Newcastle, combining investment in council housing with new affordable homes and purpose-built accommodation for residents who need additional support.
Labour and its housing partners have also been expanding assisted-living provision across the city, including 40 new affordable homes at Trevelyan Court in Newbiggin Hall and 38 apartments at Kilbourn House in Kenton.
Together, these programmes are designed to give residents greater choice.
For some people that will mean moving into a purpose-built home with care and support available. For others, Labour’s investment in adaptations can help them remain in the home and neighbourhood they already know.
Labour is determined that Newcastle’s response to an ageing population should be based on independence, dignity and choice, with investment targeted at practical measures that make a difference to residents’ everyday lives.
Council Deputy Leader Cllr Joyce McCarty said: “Labour believes everyone should have the opportunity to live independently and with dignity in a home that meets their needs.
“That’s why we’re investing £2 million to help older and disabled residents make practical adaptations to their homes.
“This investment can make a real difference. It can help somebody remain safely in the home they know, close to their family, friends and community, rather than having to move simply because their property no longer meets their needs.
“Alongside our investment in council homes, affordable housing and new assisted-living developments, this is another example of Labour investing in housing that works for Newcastle residents throughout their lives.”