Crime & Safety
Oxford council help open new assisted living housing scheme
Fern Meadows, an extra care housing development in Faringdon, officially opened on Wednesday, April 15.
It is designed for people aged 55 and over who have care needs but want to maintain independence in their own home.
Developed in partnership by Housing 21, South and Vale District Council, and Oxfordshire County Council, the scheme offers 60 self-contained apartments, with 45 available for rent and 15 for shared ownership.
So far, 53 residents have already moved in.
Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for adult social care, said: “Fern Meadows shows exactly what modern care looks like.
“People deserve independence, dignity and a real sense of community – and this is what extra care housing provides.
“It’s vibrant, social and designed around the person, not the other way around.
“We’re proud to open this new scheme in Faringdon and give local residents more choice in how they live their lives, with support available when they need it.
“This is the Oxfordshire Way in action.”
The Oxfordshire Way is the county council’s commitment for supporting people to live well and independently, close to their communities for as long as possible.
Extra care schemes like Fern Meadows allow residents to live in their own private apartments with the reassurance of flexible, tailored support that can be adjusted as their needs change.
James Williams, a resident at Fern Meadows, said: “Moving into extra care housing has made a huge difference to my life.
“I’ve been able to keep my independence and my own front door, but with the reassurance that support is there whenever I need it.
“It’s taken away a lot of worry – not just for me, but for my family too.
“There’s a real sense of community here already, and it feels good to be somewhere that’s been designed to help people live well for longer.”
The scheme includes a café, hair salon, residents’ lounge, activity room, communal gardens, guest suite, and secure mobility aid storage.
A dedicated on-site housing manager and independent care team, with care staff on-site 24/7.
Darren Herbet, deputy head of Extra Care South at Housing 21, said: “We are delighted that Fern Meadows is the newest addition to our expanding Extra Care portfolio.
“It has been designed to create a vibrant and inclusive environment that offers residents both privacy and independence.
“The scheme will serve as a community hub for Faringdon, offering opportunities for local people to connect, participate and benefit from the services and activities available.”
Families and carers are encouraged to consider Fern Meadows when planning for the future care needs of their loved ones.
The crash occurred on the roundabout at the junction of St John’s Street and Manorsfield Road in Bicester on Saturday, April 18, at about 8.50pm.
Two vehicles were involved, which police described as a grey Vauxhall Insignia and a red motorcycle.
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The motorcyclist, a man in his 20s, suffered serious injuries to his arm and currently remains in hospital, police said in a statement today (Sunday).
No arrests have so far been made but Thames Valley Police are appealing for witnesses to the crash.
Investigating officer PC Mark Jones, of the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit, said: “I am appealing for any witnesses to this collision, which left a man with serious injuries, to please come forward.
“I would also like to hear from anyone who may have been in the area at the time and has dashcam or CCTV footage, whether from vehicles, nearby homes or businesses.
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“This footage may contain important information about the collision or the moments leading up to it.”
Anyone with information should call 101 or submit a report online, quoting reference number 43260189198.
Alternatively, details can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.
That was their latest weekly theme, and they posted lots of striking photos of spring flowers in bloom – including bluebells, blossom, daffofdils and tulips.
Wildlife also featured, with photos of deer, robins and red kites a popular choice.
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It was difficult to pick a winner for photo of the week but in the end we selected Anne Rixon’s close-up shot of red and yellow tulips bending in the breeze.
Each week, camera club members are given a theme and then post their photos on the club’s Facebook page.
A selection of photos are then featured in the Oxford Mail and The Oxford Times, and one photo is chosen as the photo of the week.
Club members have been compiling a new list of weekly themes for the coming year, and the next theme is waterways.
Fresh from a victory at the Brighton Fringe, Jon will present his blend of tricks and comedy at The Mill Arts Centre.
His performance, Jon Udry is Having a Ball, promises a mix of humour and technical juggling skills, ensuring an enjoyable evening for all.
The show will take place on Thursday, April 23, at 7.30pm.
Jon’s unique style and engaging stage presence have earned him international recognition, including the title of British Young Juggler of the Year.
His performances have been seen at various venues worldwide, from festivals to cruise ships.
Tickets for the Banbury performance start at £18.50 and can be purchased directly from the Mill Arts Centre website.
With his playful, offbeat style, Jon’s show is perfect for anyone looking for something different in their evening entertainment.
More details can be found at themillartscentre.co.uk/shows/jon-udry-is-having-a-ball.
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