Gwalia Care and Support has recently launched Martins Close, a service to support those affected by or at risk of homeless in the south Wales Valleys.
Commissioned by Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, Martins Close in Abercynon has 12 self-contained 1 bed room flats, one of which is equipped to support a person with mobility or disability issues and one self-contained 2 bed room flat.
Staffed 24/7, Martins Close supports people over a 6 to 12 month period, supporting them with the management of tenancies and giving them skills and knowledge to help with independent living.
Each person living at Martins Close will have a package of support designed to suit their individual needs and preferences. Director of Housing and Support, Andrew Vye said: “Working with other agencies, Gwalia Care and Support are taking a multi-agency intervention approach from the moment a person is referred to us. The team will take the time to get to know our services users, to find out what support is suitable and will provide the best benefits for the individual and the local community.
“The people we work with will be given the skills to manage daily tasks, their money and live fit and healthy lives. Staff at Martins Close tailor the support for a service user and will work with other support agencies such as health, social care and community service to ensure the right help is on offer at the right time.
“Our ultimate aim is to ensure they have received the right support so that they develop the skills needed to be able to manage a home and life comfortably in their local community.”
Residents of Martins Close will take part in a programme of activities aimed at promoting personal and community safety and managing relationships which will help them gain new skills that could lead to employment or training opportunities.
Cllr Maureen Webber, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Deputy Leader, said: “Key to our work around Housing is to ensure residents have the kind of homes they need, in the locations where they need them. From securing affordable new homes for first-time buyers, to ensuring empty properties are regenerated and rejuvenated and that the housing demand is met across the county borough, there is a wide spectrum of work to be delivered.
“As such, it is key we work effectively and innovatively with our partners, as has been demonstrated by what we have delivered with Gwalia in Martins Close. This is bespoke, specific housing service for people with identified needs, allowing them to live safely and independently, while also ensuring they have the support on hand if they need it.”
For further information about the support, contact Martins Close on 01443 742220 or email martinsclose@gwalia.com
