Housing 21 had to think carefully about their new extra care (very sheltered) scheme in Suffolk. Mere View was to provide 32 apartments for older people, but it was in the small village of Haughley. Their task was to ensure the new scheme didn’t overwhelm the community.

The award-winning design uses local materials and creates an impression of individual homes rather than a single large building. Semi-private garden areas with personal patios and French doors make getting outdoors easy, and there is plenty of communal garden to wander in as well.

Housing 21 wanted to ensure village residents benefited from the scheme as well. Information officer Wendy Gornicki explains, “We looked at local businesses, gaps in provision in the village and what residents at our existing sheltered scheme in the village wanted. We were careful not to include any services that would put existing local businesses at risk.” A hairdresser and café are among the popular services that have got going.

All of which meant that when prospective resident Louise Dunnett visited the place that was to become her home, she was won over immediately. “I fell in love with it,” she says.

Louise moved to her sharedownership apartment from a two-storey house in Romford, Essex. “You are nervous about the idea of moving, of course,” she says. “But it is so convenient here. I can’t walk all that well so I like being on the ground floor. The rooms are a good size and there’s a nice outlook.”

Louise receives help with showering and housework from the care teams who are available 24 hours a day. The services are provided at an extra charge but she is happy with the arrangement. “It’s fine. There is always somebody here if you want them,” she says.

Though she moved to Mere View only a few months ago, Louise has already become part of the community. “People come in from the village for a meal in the restaurant and we are getting other activities going. I am settled here, I have made so many friends already.”

All of the apartments in Mere View are offered on 50% or 75% shared ownership, ensuring that they are available at modest cost. Many residents, like Louise, were able to be nearer their families by moving to Haughley, giving extra peace of mind.

Find out more www.housing21.co.uk