Specialised housing for the frail, elderly and disabled

Lodge Close - Wellington

Warden: 01823 666393

Lodge Close is a sheltered scheme which was originally built in 1979 and consisted of 26 bungalows and 16 flats under the supervision of a 'Good Neighbour' Warden. In co-operation with Somerset County Council Social Services Department in 1986 8 new dwellings (4 ground floor flats and 4 first floor flats) were added, together with a new central block containing the Warden's office and community amenities.

The site is a few minutes from the town centre, local shopping, health centre, library, etc.

The objectives of Lodge Close

To provide 'Good Neighbour' Warden service to those tenants who moved into their homes before 1986 and wish to continue receiving the same service.

To provide a fuller caring service for the more frail, elderly and disabled persons who wish to remain independent and need to feel secure in the knowledge that caring staff are always available.

To allocate the extra service to existing tenants or applicants in greater need.

To eventually establish a sheltered scheme where each unit of accommodation will be allocated soley to frail, elderly and disable persons in need of extra care. To establish as far as possible a well-mixed and balanced community.

Type of accommodation

There are 26 bungalows and 16 flats. All are one bedroom self-contained units with individual bathrooms and kitchens and gas central heating. Two flats are specifically designed for disabled persons.

All the dwellings are within easy walking distance of the meeting hall and the Warden's offices.

Each flat is fitted with the Piper Alarm system, which enables immediate contact with the Duty Warden in case of emergency 24 hours per day.

Facilities available

Lodge Close provides extensive facilities including;

• Meeting/Dining Hall
• Kitchen
• Laundry
• Guests' bedroom
• Disabled person's bathroom
• Warden's office
• Staff room
• Car parking

Special services

• Optional low cost mid day meal, 7 days a week
• 24 hour staffing presence
• Support from other services such as the Social Services if needed.
• Personal care may be supplied by a contractor with reference to an agreed care plan with tenant.
• Social Activities (e.g. coffee mornings, bingo etc)

What will it cost?

Tenants pay a weekly rent plus a service charge and Council Tax. The Service Charge is for central facilities which includes:-

• The presence of a warden
• 24 hour staff cover;
• Heating, lighting, cleaning and the maintenance of communal areas.

In many cases assistance is given to the tenants through the Housing Benefit system, which may greatly reduce the rent payable.

Who can apply for Lodge Close?

To be considered for accommodation at Lodge Close you will need to show that you require the level of support available at the scheme.

Allocations are made having regard to the following factors:-

• The need for the type of care and a positive desire to remain independent.
• The degree of frailty and restricted mobility.
• The increasing dependence on support services.
• Physically disabled persons wishing to be independent.
• Persons in permanent care who are able to live in a supported community.

How is the assessment made?

All applications will receive a home visit to assess the degree of frailty and the need for this type of accommodation.

All offers of accommodation will be made to those with the greatest need.

How to apply?

Applications may be received via;

• Social Workers, Doctors, Hospitals, Health Visitors etc.
• Applicants may be Council tenants or private residents.
  

Contact

Housing Options
Taunton Deane Borough Council
The Deane House
Belvedere Road
Taunton
Somerset TA1 1HE
Tel: 01823 356581