A new partnership between the Council and a housing association aims to see 'housing with care' established in Clackmannanshire for the first time.
Trust Housing Association already run a number of sheltered housing developments in Clackmannanshire.
Now the Council is to work with the not-for-profit association to establish 'housing with care services' at West Lodge Gardens, Alloa, on a trial basis.
The plans involve converting existing sheltered housing flats into 'housing with care' units. These flats will become homes for older people who have support needs and older people with dementia. A team of staff on site will support the tenants.
As well as providing domestic services such as cleaning, shopping and laundry, there will be a communal lounge and activities within the complex.
Councillor Sam Ovens, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, said: "With an increasing population of older people we need to look at sustainable ways to meet people's needs at home, rather than in hospital or in residential care. Housing with care helps older people to remain as independent as possible with extra support, assistance and care when needed. This new service has the potential to maintain and improve the quality of life of older people who are in need."
The average cost to the Council of supporting an older people in a care home is £12,500 a year, while it is estimated that Housing with Care will cost under £8000 a year.
This first project in partnership with Trust Housing Association will be closely monitored and evaluated. If it is successful then further proposed new developments will come before Council.
www.clacksweb.org.uk
