11:30am Monday 8th February 2010
By Melanie Vass
RESIDENTS who are being asked to move out of a special needs sheltered accommodation block fear they may not be allowed to return.
The 12 people who live at Silver Jubilee Court, Canford Avenue, Wallisdown have been asked to move to alternative accommodation so the tired and rundown block can be modernised.
But, once refurbished, the block will be used as “general needs” accommodation, so it will be used to house anyone on the waiting list.
And current residents who require more specialised accommodation are worried this means they will not be able to move back.
One couple, who have lived there for more than 30 years, said: “We don’t want to move, we like it here.”
Ian Shaw, housing manager at Bournemouth council, said all residents would have the opportunity to return to Silver Jubilee Court if they wanted to and if the scheme was still suitable for their needs.
He said: “The welfare of our residents is our main priority and we have made sure that we have consulted with them and their families by interviewing each of them personally to explain the reasons for the refurbishment and to help them find suitable alternative accommodation that they are happy with.
“Silver Jubilee Court is in urgent need of full refurbishment in order to modernise and improve the building. Once the refurbishment is completed all residents will have the opportunity to return to Silver Jubilee Court if they so wish and providing the scheme is still suitable for their social care needs.
“We appreciate that any move is unsettling. However, I understand that the community care team will continue to provide support and advice throughout this process.”
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