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Independent living activity innovators shortlisted for top award

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Our innovators in new independent living activities have been shortlisted for a top award

SDC Independent Living Team

Innovative new activities for Independent Living Hub residents mean Stroud District Council is in the running for a top award.

The Council’s Independent Living Team has been shortlisted for Best Older Peoples’ Landlords in the UK Housing Awards 2024 awards and will find out if it has been judged the best in the country at a special ceremony on November 26.

After listening to residents, extra activities such as intergenerational events with local Cubs and Beavers, a weekly lunch club, creative writing, music groups, a carers support group, and a hops to beer activity have been laid on, alongside more traditional activities.

"We have moved away from a ‘one size fits all’ approach, allowing tenants to enjoy as little or as much support as they need,” said SDC Independent Living Service Delivery Manager, Lynne Mansell.  

Sandra Winchester picking hops in 2024  

“Seven of our independent living schemes are now designated as ‘Hubs’, providing vibrant lounges where tenants can come together in a safe welcoming space. As well as the popular bingo, yoga, craft, and seated exercise classes, we have listened to residents needs and supported the development of unique activities to match the different communities that are evolving within each Hub. We are passionate about finding new ways to make the lives of our residents better, whether this is supporting fun activities, or providing opportunities to tackle social isolation.”

 

 

The hops to beer events have proved popular with residents and non-residents. Sandra Winchester joined in the activity at Stroud Brewery recently - as she did 66 years ago (pictured).

“It was wonderful being part of the Stroud Brewery hop picking day, it brought back so many memories of hop picking when I was young, but this time I will be getting paid in beer instead of money!” she said.

Last year, allotment owner Mike Holyoake who lives in Concord Independent Living Scheme cultivated hops from Stroud Brewery Hop Club as part of the Concord Garden Project. This year Concord Hub  member Sandra Winchester and tenant Pat Wright took part.

   Sandra Winchester picking hops in 1958
Sherborne House Hub Lounge in Stonehouse  

Stroud District Council has six Hubs in Cashes Green, Uplands, Nailsworth, Minchinhampton, Stonehouse and Cam and they are home to 235 residents. The seventh Hub will be in Wotton-under-Edge.

SDC Housing Committee Chair Gary Luff said: “I would like to congratulate the Independent Living Hub team on being shortlisted for this award, and I wish them every success in the final judging. This important improvement aligns with our Council Plan priority of strengthening and supporting our communities so people feel included and connected.”

 

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