SOUTH Somerset Homes has in the last year converted six of their sheltered housing schemes to that of extra care housing.

Extra care housing differs from sheltered housing in that residents benefit from 24-hour staff cover, a dedicated care team providing individual assessed care packages, as well as a higher level of facilities for the disabled.

It is most suitable for frail older residents who wish to continue to live independently with the help of care staff as appropriate. This enables the majority of residents to remain living within the scheme and removes the need for some people to move to residential care homes.

Residents have their own self-contained flat with a bedroom, living room, kitchen and bathroom. Many residents have access to a range of communal facilities including a lounge, laundry and guest bedroom.

The success of South Somerset Homes' four original extra care housing schemes was recognised in a joint review commissioned by Somerset County Council and their model is now used as the basis for a countywide extra care housing specification.

South Somerset Homes' chief executive, Geoff Atkinson, said: "We believe that properly managed extra care housing, linked to effective joint strategies between housing, health and social services, can provide a housing alternative to residential care."

Following the successful conversion of six sheltered schemes into extra care housing schemes, South Somerset Homes will, in conjunction with Social Services, monitor and review the effectiveness of the ten extra care schemes which they operate.

In addition they will continue to work with Social Services to consider the further development of extra care housing across South Somerset where a need is identified.

Extra care schemes are currently located at Park Lodge in Yeovil, Pearson House in Yeovil, Bearley House in Martock, Laburnum Drive in Somerton, Common Road in Wincanton, Malmesbury Court in Yeovil, Muchelney House in Ilminster, St Gildas in Chard, Bowhayes in Crewkerne, and Snowdon House in Chard.