Extra Care Housing
Extra Care housing provides purpose built, accessible homes that promotes independent living but also have the added benefit of being able to support you to stay in your own home if you become ill or need additional support as you grow older. The schemes are mostly rented though private tenancy, they are all fully self-contained properties, usually flats or bungalows, where you will have your own front door, living area, kitchen, bathroom and bedrooms. Most schemes will have communal spaces and facilities that all tenants can use if they wish. There is also the added security of fob or person-controlled entry into the main building.
The main difference between extra care schemes and retirement developments or sheltered housing is that with extra care comes the reassurance that trained, professional care staff are based on site 24 hours a day. The care team can support with all personal care including administering medication if this need should arise. The care team will also respond to any emergency calls even if the tenant is not receiving any personal care.
All extra care schemes flats have telecare devices automatically installed so you can call for help 24 hours a day in the event of an emergency such as a fall or becoming very unwell. The care team will be contacted and respond to your call.
Care packages may be free or low cost following an Adult Social Care assessment that will look at your care needs and finances, alternatively some people may choose to pay privately for care.
Care Services Westmorland and Furness currently provide support to 4 Extra Care schemes:
- Jenkins Crag Court - Kendal
- Birthwaite - Windermere
- Mill Gardens - Kirkby Stephen
- Rampkin House - Appleby (until Nov 23)