A plan for a £10 million old people’s home could create 80 jobs on Wearside. The development, which will provide full-time independent living, is being built in Silksworth by the charity Abbeyfield.
The three-storey home, expected to open in 2018, will contain 75 one and two-bedroom flats. The home will provide its residents with 24-hour care support.
A number of vacancies will be available, including positions for care workers, front-of-house staff, maintenance workers and chefs. Recruitment is scheduled to start later in 2017.
The old people’s home, which will overlook the Tunstall Hills, is being jointly funded by Abbeyfield and the Homes and Communities Agency. In addition, Abbeyfield is working in partnership with Sunderland City Council and building firm Tolent Construction.
Project Lead Jacqueline Notman said, “This is the first time that Abbeyfield has undertaken a 75-unit scheme in a location which is new to us.”
“As a charity, we are governed by need and this is a real opportunity for us to offer older people living in and around the Sunderland area an exciting new facility which combines Abbeyfield’s ethos of providing the best care and housing with being a champion for older people in the community.”
“Abbeyfield is a charity which is dedicated to making the lives of older people easier and more fulfilling while enabling them to live as independently as they wish with the safety net of a caring environment.”
“Silksworth is an important development for Abbeyfield that will provide older people with the ability to live independently while enjoying the security and confidence of knowing that round-the-clock security and care is on hand, if needed, in a modern, attractive, purpose-built environment.”
The development will include communal areas and a relaxation centre. Funding is being sought to provide art and textile classes, at which residents can make materials to decorate the facility.
Cllr Graeme Miller, Sunderland City Council’s portfolio holder for health, housing and adult social care, said, “I’m delighted that Abbeyfield has chosen to invest in our city.”
“Sunderland has developed a national reputation for its approach to providing supported accommodation for older people.”
“The scheme at Silksworth will not only meet a wide range of accommodation and care needs, but is also designed to improve the health and wellbeing of all those living there.”
“We look forward to working with Abbeyfield and all our partners to make this scheme a real success. We also welcome the continuing support of the Homes and Communities Agency who have helped to fund this latest project.”
The old people’s home will be open to single people or couples aged 55 or over who are receiving care.
