Elim breaks ground with specialist housing scheme

Elim Housing has started work on its first ‘transforming care’ newbuild scheme to provide specialist housing on a site at Oldland Common, in Bristol.The scheme will consist of specialist accommodation, built as self-contained bungalows, for six individuals with learning disabilities or autism, and complex care needs who may currently be in hospitals or be at risk of hospital admission.A ceremonial breaking ground was held to mark work beginning on site. Those taking part included representatives from Bristol City Council, South Gloucestershire Council, NHS BNSSG ICB, and local councillors.The project is being funded by NHS England and Homes England as part of an innovative joint approach.Councillor John O’Neil, South Gloucestershire’s cabinet member for adults and homes, said: “I am delighted to be able to see this project getting underway. A safe and stable home with the wraparound support people need here will need will make all the difference to so many futures.“These homes represent the opportunity for a transition to independent lives and I look forward to seeing them complete and to the first residents moving in as part of their life’s journey.”Located on the Eastern edge of Bristol as part of a wider redevelopment of a brownfield site, the highly sustainable scheme will feature solar panels, air source heat pumps and green roof, while the interior offers carefully designed rooms complete with rounded corners and muted colour palette so not to overwhelm the residents.Separate staff units on site will allow for 24/7 support providing a safe, stable and supportive place to live.Paul Smith, Elim Group’s chief executive, said: “We are delighted to have broken ground at our first Transforming Care scheme at Oldland Common, reaffirming our mission to deliver homes that change peoples lives.“The scheme, built upon strong partnerships, will have a transformative positive impact on its new residents, providing a home-like environment for residents who require support with aspects of day-to-day living.”Naina Mandleker, project consultant, added: “It is pleasure to see the culmination of over four years of hard work by Elim, commissioners, health, housing, care and enabling colleagues, experts by experience, architects and consultants into a key milestone signalling the start of the build of this transforming care scheme. Look forward to completing the build towards the end of the year and welcoming the residents to their new homes.”The scheme is developed jointly with Bristol City Council, South Gloucestershire Council, North Somerset Council, NHS BNSSG ICB and other stakeholders.Are you a social housing professional? Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to upload news stories, post job vacancies, and connect with colleagues on our secure social feed.