Extra Care

Learn about Extra Care Housing in a minute

Go on then, what is it?

Apartments (usually), specially designed to cater for all kinds of situations where you or a relative may need extra care and support.

Hmm. Such as?

Say a relative has severe arthritis, but their condition isn't deteriorating enough to warrant going in a care or nursing home. They need help with everyday tasks, but want to live independently.

So it's like a care home then?

No. It's about living at home not in a home. It's based on individual needs which can be increased or decreased as things change, but the design and use of technology means people with a wide range of needs can live independently in an apartment complex.

Sounds expensive.

Obviously that depends. There are two costs to consider - the accommodation and what support is needed. Extra care properties are either rented from around £90 a week from us, and in some cases there are options to part-buy part-rent, which costs a bit more. Our homecare packages start at £13 a week.

Are the residents allowed out?

Of course. These are real communities, with lots of opportunities for social activities, and residents can come and go just the same as anywhere else. As well as activities the residents organise themselves, there are other agencies, help groups, volunteers, and others who pop in and out, so life in an Extra Care complex is really what you make of it.

Sounds great. Where are these Extra Care places?

Although the idea has been around for over 20 years, the prospect of a rapidly ageing population means a lot more extra care places are on the cards. We have two schemes - at Abbey Court in Popley, Basingstoke, we have 54 apartments (largely occupied), plus a short-stay suite so you can 'try before you buy'. We're also developing one in Fleet at Campbell Close (ready 2011) - a state-of-the-art complex of 74 apartments plus communal facilities just a short walk from the town centre.

Do I need to go on a waiting list?

Yes. Our approach is to work closely with councils to make sure the limited places go to the right people. Your local council may have an Extra Care waiting list, but if you're not sure what to do, give us a call on 01256 338833 and we'll help all we can.