Independence is a draw for new Swindon retirement living service

A tree planting ceremony gave a Swindon man the opportunity to express his excitement over a new MHA retirement living option in the town.

Len Francis, who will move into Fitzwarren Court,on Kingsdown Road, when it is completed next spring, said he was pleased he would be retaining his independence and privacy at the development, which will be part of the older people’s national charity MHA.

Speaking at the tree planting, which marked the completion of Fitzwarren Court’s roof, Len said, “I’m very impressed with my apartment. It’s so spacious! It’s good that I’ll have a self contained apartment and be able to do what I want, as I’ve always been an independent person. At the same time, though, there’ll be neighbours and people on site, so I won’t get lonely. There’s also care and assistance available. I’m fine at the moment but I’m glad to know that there’ll be support if I should need it.

“I was wondering before I saw my apartment if it would be right for me but now I’ve seen it I know it is. I’m now looking forward to seeing Fitzwarren Court’s café bistro  when that’s finished!”

MHA is a leading national charity providing accommodation, care and support to over 16,000 older people nationwide. Fitzwarren Court is being built by Castleoak, one of MHA’s construction and development partners, with a relationship of over 15 years standing. Castleoak has just been awarded a Performance Beyond Compliance certificate from the Considerate Constructors Scheme, scoring highly in all key performance points, which include ‘Respect the Community’ and ‘Protect the Environment’.

The 37 self-contained apartments and studios will have plenty of services and facilities to enable residents to live as they choose. An on-site staff team, available around the clock, will deliver tailored care and assistance to individual requirements, as well as provide an emergency response service.

Fitzwarren Court will be an additional element to MHA’s mini village in Swindon, comprising of Fitzwarren House care home and Stanton Lodge,  a collection of retirement living apartments with care for couples living with dementia. As an assisted living community, Fitzwarren Court residents will have a simple all-inclusive package plus any care they require, including meals if they so wish.

Len added, “I am 86 and at the moment I can manage fine. But who knows what the future holds? It’s very reassuring to know the help will be there if I need it. I am also pleased that I’ll be getting at least one meal a day prepared for me. 

“If anyone in or near the town is thinking about moving in retirement, I would suggest they get in contact and find out more about it.”

Fitzwarren Court’s apartments are available for sale, rent or part-purchase and are purpose-designed for later life.

To find out more about Fitzwarren Court, please call the sales office on 01793 820448 (Wednesday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm), or email enquiries@mha.org.uk.