Hull City Council's bid to build extra care accommodation and support for people with dementia has been approved, in principle, by the Department of Health.

The Department of Health has awarded the city Private Finance Initiative (PFI) credits to build 100 new extra care homes which in addition to the £23.4m allocated last year, brings the total to just over £65m for extra care facilities at three locations across the city. The council will be submitting a combined business case for final approval by the Treasury  this summer.

The latest announcement, the Department of Health provides for 100, one and two bedroom apartments with 24 hour care and support available to be built at The Thorpes on Orchard Park, the former Holden Centre on Leeds Road and
on Hawthorne Avenue.  The main focus for the accommodation will be to support people with dementia and the new premises will also include facilities for community involvement.  The Council is already working with partners in the health and voluntary sectors to ensure that the plans for the new accommodation reflects the best in design and assistive technology.

Cllr Stephen Baker, cabinet member for adult care, health and equalities said: "Improving the quality of life for older people is an important priority for the council, and extra care housing is an essential element in offering choice and helping people live as independently as possible."

Angela Dunn Head of Social Care and Housing for the Council commented "We welcome the approval of our submission from the Department of Health, which will enable us to develop extra care as an alternative to institutional care for older people and adults with disabilities or mental health needs in the community.  We are looking to develop these schemes in three locations across the city."

The PFI credits finance the design and construction of the accommodation and facilities on site.

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For further information please contact: Gilly.Greensitt@hullcc.gov.uk / 01482 613058.