New specialist independent living accommodation has opened in West Yorkshire. The supported living service in Stanningley near Pudsey, West Yorkshire contains twelve self-contained apartments and eight specialist bungalows within a purpose-built development. Eden Futures will deliver the 24/7 care and support for people living there, creating 40 jobs.

The development is a collaboration by developer Pudsey SSL Limited, registered provider Blue Square Residential, the commissioning teams of NHS Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and Leeds City Council, and Eden Futures.

Yvette Keenoy, area manager, says: “We deliver the support services for people aged 18 and over, most of whom have autism, a learning disability or mental health needs. We support people to be as independent as possible and help them achieve their goals. We’re delighted to expand our services locally in Stanningley and look forward to welcoming people soon.”

Kevin Ritchie, Councillor for Bramley & Stanningley Ward and Disability Champion, Leeds City Council, said: “I’m pleased to see this exciting development to support adults with learning disabilities and other health needs. There is a great need for appropriate, supported and fully accessible accommodation, to enable people to live as fully and independently as possible. I welcome the residents to the area and look forward to linking them in with other third sector partners in the City to join in the many activities that improve life skills, build confidence and wellbeing and help lead fulfilling lives.”

Katy Peters, supported living manager, Blue Square Residential, adds: “Back in 2019, Leeds CCG identified a gap in service provision so Stanningley was developed, in partnership with them, to meet the needs of this cohort. We’ve provided brand-new, purpose-built accommodation and enhanced support options within the city boundary. The service will enable the CCG to reduce delays in hospital discharges, avoid hospital admissions and repatriate individuals who are currently placed out-of-area.”

Dave Whittock, Eden Futures’ director of service development, concludes: “We’re moving forward with our plans to meet the shortage of specialist supported living services which are much needed in communities. We welcome applications for support worker posts for Stanningley as they‘re integral to the support network we provide. We’re looking for people to join us who don’t just work in the sector already, but those people with no experience who share our company values and want an alternative career as full training is provided.”