Agenda item

Housing 21 - Mildmays Extra Care

Jackie Millar, Service Manager, Mildmays Extra Care, introduced the presentation and summarised key points to the Committee.

The following main points were noted in the discussion:

• The extra care scheme was commissioned by the Council.
• The independence of the residents was promoted by getting to know them individually, holistically, recognising their needs and struggles and understanding what their aspirations were.
• It was highlighted the service was not a care home and was more like supported living within a community. Each resident would have their own private unit with a front door. Domiciliary care would be available as well as having extra care provided on site.
• The Committee queried about how people would get to know about Mildmays Extra Care Scheme, in response to this question, it was advised that the service worked in partnership with Council services including Islington Learning Disability Partnership and Mental Health services. There was also an online road show to promote the services provided at Mildmays. It was also noted that social workers were the main point of contact of referring someone in through the brokerage team.
• It was advised that there would be 11 new commissioned extra care units within the existing buildings, where there was space available that could be adapted into making make more units.
• The Committee noted that Mildmays was acquired by Housing 21 which was a care provider. Housing 21 had invested in the units.  The units were then refurbished with new bathrooms and fittings as this needed restoration.
• In response to a question on the number of units available, it was noted that there was a total of 87 units, with around 9 new units to be opened in 2025.
• In terms of care available, it was stated that there were 24-hour staff available with a core care delivery team. There were approximately 2 staff for each unit at night to respond for emergencies, especially for those who had been discharged from hospital with extended services.
• It was advised that Mildmays provided services that were culturally appropriate. A quiet space would be provided for those who wanted to pray. Service users would have their own room where they would be able to pray privately. Mildmays was accommodating to all religious beliefs and was open to making changes to adapt to the religious needs of individuals.
• Officers advised that the extra care housing offer was being expanded and Mildmays was the only extra care provision at the moment. There were further projects for extra care housing in Holloway due to open in 2028. Ther were constant conversations about future developments and colleagues were aware on the importance around more extra care units. This was something that was less institutional and depending on market engagement there would be intergenerational extra care schemes. It was also noted that there were plans to speak to housing associations around producing more sheltered accommodation. It was advised that extra care works on a larger footprint.
• The Committee asked about the type of activities that were available for the residents and it was stated that the service provided a range of activities suitable for all residents. It was mentioned that there were 3 different units at Mildmays with a smaller house which enabled individuals to interact with each other. Residents were able to participate in activities such as baking and cooking. There was also an activity programme arranged 5 times a week for enabled people. Additionally, in the other blocks, there were 3 rooms where residents could dine together. Funding was also provided from the Council and Housing 21 which contributed towards activities including poetry and book writing. 

RESOLVED:

That the presentation to be noted.