RCT Homes achieves Platinum award
02.11.11
Sadly however for many people, particularly those that live alone, their own homes are not safe places. For many older people that have developed sight loss simply moving around in their own homes is one the hardest daily activities they face, stairs become treacherous, making a cup of tea can lead to severe burns and answering the door becomes a risk.
And that’s why of course we are seeing such growth in Extra and Supported care schemes, but if you have sight loss simply moving into supported care may not be enough to keep you safe. That’s why the Visibly Better Accreditation scheme for sheltered housing was developed and is so important.
It’s a scheme that enables RNIB Cymru to support Housing Associations and Community Mutuals to ensure that their services and support, the homes they create, meet the specific needs of people with sight loss whilst working towards the WHQS.
RCT homes are the first housing association in Wales to achieve the Visibly Better platinum award for their Bryn Ivor sheltered Scheme in the Rhondda.
Angela Stacey Head of Operations states…“It’s a very proud moment for RCT Homes in receiving the Platinum standard for the Visibly Better Accreditation. Achieving the accreditation is recognition of the fantastic work done at Bryn Ivor sheltered housing complex and RCT Homes’ desire to provide excellent homes for all tenants. By working to achieve this RCT Homes was able to create an environment which also fulfils Welsh Housing Quality Standard objectives and Development Quality Requirements.
“The well-designed bathrooms, kitchens and colours schemes offer practical solutions for evolving needs, meaning that the tenant is empowered to maintain a healthy level of independence. In addition to this, what took RCT Homes to the Platinum level was the “sensory garden” that sits in the grounds of Bryn Ivor. This is something that I know that the tenants really make the most out of and appreciate.”
It's vital that housing associations continue to develop and ensure the needs of their older tenants in sheltered housing are catered for. Thankfully there are sheltered schemes across Wales implementing the Visibly Better programme into their organisation standards and policies right now. If your organisation would like to know more about Visibly Better please contact david.watkins@rnib.org.uk or 01792 325309.