Heidi Alexander visited Gilbert Place, meeting residents and discussing housing for older people in Swindon.
The MP toured the housing site and talked to residents. They discussed housing for older people, noting how much they value it.
Located on Lowry Way, Gilbert Place has 65 private apartments for people over 70. Twelve apartments were sold cheaply thanks to a government scheme.
Gilbert Place offers shared spaces, including a bistro and a year-round care team. The care team provides support both night and day.
Heidi Alexander enjoyed visiting and had a good talk with residents. They spoke about Swindon’s health services, noting the importance of retirement communities for keeping older people happy and healthy while providing needed housing.
Natasha Dwyer, the estate manager, leads a team of about twenty people, including care staff and a chef. She said it was great to have Heidi visit, and that they met with the nice residents, some of whom benefited of the government scheme. Sharing the initiative with the MP felt special, as it’s vital to help older adults thrive.
The UK needs more housing now, as there is a shortage of suitable homes, affecting the aging population a lot. Many older folk struggle financially and cannot find housing that meets their needs.
McCarthy Stone wants the government to act and follow the Taskforce report. Some apartments still remain at Gilbert Place, with prices starting at £130,000 through the scheme.
McCarthy Stone builds and manages retirement communities, allowing people to stay independent in their own homes with the peace of mind that help is available. McCarthy Stone operates many sites in the UK with 549 developments in total, serving over 22,000 people.