Source: City of Portsmouth
Portsmouth City Council secured funding to purchase a vacant building and transform it into a home for seven young people with complex support needs, some of whom have been living out of area for their education.
The project was born from a shared ambition: to bring these young people back to Portsmouth for their move into adulthood, closer to their families and communities, and to provide them with a safe, supportive environment where they can live independently.
The home features six ensuite rooms with communal living spaces and one self-contained flat. The new tenants will benefit from 24-hour support provided by a registered care provider, with the council acting as landlord.
The young adults will also have access to a wide range of local health and social care services, including day opportunities and sporting activities tailored to adults with learning disabilities.
Their new home was opened with a celebration to mark the occasion, thanking the many teams and individuals who have made this vision a reality and, importantly, to give the new tenants and their families the chance to look around their new home ahead of their move.
Michelle (pictured with the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress), is the Mum of one of the new tenants, and is delighted with her son’s new home. She said:
“For me, this is going to have a positive impact in terms of feeling there is a future for my son – and we haven’t had to make a choice under pressure or take something we weren’t 100% comfortable with. I love the setting – it doesn’t feel like a residential care facility; it feels like a student house. I love the fact that he’s going to be with people of similar age and needs. He has a lot of energy, so he’ll adore the garden, looking out onto trees – it’ll be amazing for him.”
Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of the Council with responsibility for Culture, Regeneration & Economic Development said:
“This project shows the dedication and commitment of multiple teams across the council – showcasing “one council” working.
From identifying the building and overseeing its refurbishment, to coordinating care and support services, every step has been guided by a shared vision and provides a place for these young adults to live independently.”