Housing shuffle is all set
Published 12 Jan 2012 08:00
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A SHAKE-UP of Reading's sheltered housing is set for approval next week.
Reading Borough Council's ruling Labour group has modified its plans following a backlash from residents during last year's consultation.
More than 200 people returned feedback forms at the time and the amended changes - affecting 297 residents - should be agreed on Monday.
The council originally proposed opening some of the 10 sheltered housing schemes to under 60s with support needs, but has since set an age cap of 55. It has also abandoned plans to scrap weekend staff and will instead have an officer on duty at each scheme from 8am-1pm, Saturdays and Sundays.
Borough housing leader, Cllr Rachel Eden, said the consultation was comprehensive and stressed the council had listened. She added: "Tenants and local organisations have welcomed the opportunity to work with our sheltered housing team to make suggestions for improvements to the proposals and I am grateful to all those who took part. It has helped us to ensure these proposals meet the needs of current and future tenants."
The council will press ahead with getting rid of dedicated sheltered housing officers at seven of the schemes, replacing them with two teams of available to residents at each scheme on fixed timetables. The three other schemes, Christchurch Court, Bristow Close and Tyrrell Court, will keep their respective wardens.
The council points out that staffing levels will actually increase, with one officer for every 38 residents instead of 40, thanks to the decommissioning of the Orrin Close and Helmsdale Close schemes in Tilehurst, which are being replaced by the extra care scheme opening as part of the Dee Park regeneration.
Other changes include a new out of hours, on-call service - Reading-24 - and the introduction of an activities officer to encourage residents to take part in social and health activities.
They will be phased in over a year from May, following consultation with staff, and will annually free up £120,000, which the council has pledged to use for new services for older people.
This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 11 Jan 12
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