Knowles Close Opens its Doors

3/31/2010

It was smiles all round as residents of Knowles Close opened their doors to mark the National Housing Federation’s supported housing month.

It was smiles all round as residents of Knowles Close opened their doors to mark the National Housing Federation’s supported housing month.

During March there was a series of events across the region to raise the profile of the vital services that supported housing provides.

Knowles Close is home to 14 people who have special support needs, due to having either learning disabilities or physical disabilities.  The project, which was opened twelve years ago by Angela Browning MP, currently benefits from government funding, but this is under threat. 

Julie Harvey, Supported Housing Manager, said, “The event was a great way to tell people all about what we do.  We know that we provide a very valuable service as research shows that every pound spent on projects like this saves other public services £2.12.”

Staff at Knowles Close enable residents to carry out day to day activities that many people take for granted, such as budgeting, shopping, cooking and even going on days out.  Some of the residents have been helped to find voluntary jobs in the area and also successful moves into independent properties. 

Elaine Crooke, head of housing services, added, “Supported housing has lost the ring fence  it used to have around funding and we all know that there will be tough public spending decisions ahead.  Knowles Close provides a vital support to those who live there, so it is important we shout about the great work we do.  With our help, residents are able to reach their full potential and enjoy independent and fulfilled lives.   It would be a terrible shame if that was taken away from them.”