New residents settling in nicely to Neuadd Maldwyn

Excited residents have begun to move into Neuadd Maldwyn in Welshpool, the independent living scheme for over 60s from the local community. 

Owned by Welsh social housing provider ClwydAlyn, Neuadd Maldwyn is providing 66 high-quality, safe, warm homes for elderly people from the Welshpool area.

The first residents began to move into their homes on April 14, with the new apartments offering a supportive environment for residents, with the opportunity to live alongside peers and socialise in a community setting.

As well as the one-and-two-bedroom modern apartments, the scheme features a large restaurant, multi-activity room, landscaped gardens, communal lounge, laundry, buggy store, separate assisted bathroom, and a variety of other communal spaces for the residents to use and enjoy.

ClwydAlyn explained that independent living is all about helping people to live well on their own terms, in their own home, with the opportunity to receive a little extra support if or when needed. Neuadd Maldwyn’s fully self-contained apartments have been designed to be comfortable, safe and accessible.

Every resident is offered a nutritious warm lunch in the restaurant each day. There are staff available to keep the scheme secure and clean. And many shared spaces at Neuadd Maldwyn can be used by residents either individually or as part of a larger group for activities or get-togethers.

Living at Neuadd Maldwyn allows residents to live independently, whilst having the security that help is close by, should it be necessary.

So, how do the new residents feel?

Jenny was excited to move into one of the new apartments and said: “I feel brilliant about moving in, as Neuadd Maldwyn covers all my needs. I’ve always been independent, but living here means I can remain independent.

“I love my apartment, its perfect and the thing I like best are the lovely people and the homely feel that Neuadd Maldwyn has. It’s the best decision I’ve made.”

Sharon also moved into Neuadd Maldwyn recently and explained: “I’ve been living in a motorhome, a caravan and sofa surfing for nearly five years.

“When I close my door, and look out of my patio doors, I know I need never have to move again. This is my home.”

Brendan McWhinnie, Housing Manager from ClwydAlyn, said: “After many years of working with older people, we know how best to provide individual care to suit our residents. Dignity, independence and choice are what we offer here at Neuadd Maldwyn; with residents free to live their lives as they wish, as part of our thriving community.

“We still have a couple of apartments available for immediate rental here in Welshpool, and we are looking forward to welcoming more new residents throughout April and May.”

Cllr Sian Cox, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for a Caring Powys, said: “Having a hand when we need it, and supportive social connections, are bedrocks of being able to live independently and of wellbeing. Humans have evolved to live connected to and able to call on each other. This is community.

“Neuadd Maldwyn is one example of how we are supporting people with care and support needs to live and, as new resident Jenny says, remain independent, with flexible support – not too much or too little, but just right. I’m delighted that this community is now up and running, and I thank all those involved for making it happen.”

Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant, said: “It’s brilliant to see residents moving into their new, high-quality homes at Neuadd Maldwyn.

“The transformation of this former Grade II listed building has received support through our Integrated Care Fund and Social Housing Grant capital programmes and demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations work together with a shared vision.”

Priority for the available homes has been given to residents from the Powys area, who are aged over 60 with assessed care or support needs. Housing management and ancillary services are provided by ClwydAlyn, whilst Powys County Council is responsible for the provision of on-site domiciliary care.

The one-and-two-bedroom apartments, located in the centre of Welshpool, were built by Anwyl Partnerships on behalf of ClwydAlyn, along with Powys County Council, supported by Welsh Government and Powys Teaching Health Board. 

There is still time for potential residents to apply to the scheme; with some one- and two-bedroom apartments available for rental.

To find out more about Neuadd Maldwyn, visit: www.clwydalyn.co.uk/neuadd-maldwyn/ or to register interest in the scheme, call 0800 183 5757 or email: help@clwydalyn.co.uk