Banburyshire specialist housing team reaches finals of UK Housing Awards

Cherwell District Council’s Build! team specialises in creating homes that are a bit different to those commercial developers normally offer. They are under the spotlight in the Best Supported Housing Landlord category of the awards, thanks to their work with 53 tenants at seven supported housing developments in Banbury and Bicester.

Cllr Lynn Pratt, Cherwell’s lead member for economy, regeneration and property, said: “People need different levels and types of specialist care throughout life. The Build! team’s hallmark is helping people to live more happily and independently, using thoughtful, bespoke solutions.

“They are not only landlords. The team designed these homes from the bottom up with the residents’ particular needs in mind, for example, accessible fittings and facilities for people with physical disabilities. They then work in concert with a range of partners to ensure people are getting the type of care and support that’s right for them.”

The ongoing management of the tenancies involves close work with support providers in the charitable sector as well as Oxfordshire County Council (OCC) colleagues from the occupational therapy and social care teams.

Stephen Chandler, OCC’s director for adult services, said: “I’m delighted to hear that this housing project has become recognised and acknowledged for the difference it makes to the lives of our residents.

“I would like to congratulate the Build! and entire social care teams for their efforts and hard work to collectively provide the support and care our residents need to live a life with choice and independence.”

The various developments offer accommodation for: young people leaving care; people living with physical disabilities; people living with acquired brain injuries; former rough sleepers and the homeless; people living with learning disabilities and autism.