Our independent living schemes consist of self-contained flats within the same building, with access by lift or stairs to the first floor.

Communal areas 

All independent living schemes have communal lounges, kitchens and gardens for everyone to use. Some schemes also have other communal facilities including: 

• laundry (Brocklehurst Court, Catherine Court and Markham Court) 
• hairdressing room (Glebe Court) 
• quiet room (Catherine Court and Glebe Court) 
• communal dryers (Glebe Court) 
• two assisted bathrooms with accessible baths (Parkside)  

Careline  

All flats have built-in Careline units and 24-hour emergency personal alarms, which can be worn around the neck or wrist. Careline units are also located in communal areas. You cannot opt out of having a Careline unit, but you can choose the level of service that works for you.

Find out more about Careline charges at our independent living schemes, or get information about the Careline and response service.

Secure door entry system 

Most external doors can only be opened using a fob. Fobs are provided with your keys at sign-up. Visitor access is managed by Careline. 

Scooter store 

All schemes have limited storage and charging points for scooters. We operate a waiting list for scooter storage, please ask the allocations team about availability.  

Service charges 

A service charge is payable with your rent. This charge is for cleaning and maintenance of communal areas and gardens, including external window cleaning. A charge for heating and hot water is also payable.

Your service charge may be covered by Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. Utilities are not eligible for Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. You will be charged separately for Careline services.

Further information about your service charge is provided at your sign-up visit. 

Visiting staff 

There is no scheme manager or staff on site. You can contact Careline 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and housing staff visit regularly.

Housing officers for schemes work across all of our independent living schemes during normal office hours. 

Fire safety 

All flats have smoke alarms linked to Careline. There is a fire panel system for smoke alarms covering all communal areas and a sprinkler system throughout the building.