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.