Residents celebrate 10th Anniversary of Cedar Court with Mayor
- Sheltered housing tenants thriving
- Mayor presents lovely picture to the residents
- Residents say best move they have made
- Supported living gives independence with security of support onsite
Residents were joined by school pupils and The Mayor to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the opening of Cedar Court.
A fantastic picture of the current residents and staff will join an image of the original residents who all moved into the sheltered accommodation in 2014. Four original residents still live in the private self-contained flats off Basingstoke Road, Whitley.
Chris Ball said she did not want to leave her native Whitley and moving to Cedar Court was one of the best decisions she and her husband made. She has now secured a position of social secretary organising events and values the friendships she has made.
Celebrating her 67th birthday in the same week as the anniversary, she said: "I'm a Whitley girl and never wanted to leave.
“This was the best move I made in my life. That's because I have friends and staff to go to if I need anything at any time of the day or night if I am unwell or feeling down. There is also always something to do especially my favourite karaoke.”
Jean Lawlor, aged 83 years, moved from Emmer Green to be nearer family after her husband passed away. She said: “This was the best move I could have made. I have made a lot of friends, there is always something to do or someone to talk to.”
Maxine Knight, Extra Care Housing and Support Officer, said: "We celebrate a milestone in the history of Cedar Court - its 10th anniversary. It is with great pleasure that we reflect on the past decade and the positive impact that Cedar Court has had on the lives of our residents.
“Ten years ago, Cedar Court opened its doors, offering a safe, comfortable, and independent living environment for our older residents. With its 40 flats, onsite restaurant, hair salon, and 24-hour carer support, Cedar Court has become a vibrant community where residents can thrive.
“Over the years, we have witnessed countless stories of friendship, laughter, and shared experiences. Cedar Court has provided a place where residents can connect with like-minded individuals, engage in a variety of activities, and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the dedicated staff who have worked tirelessly to make Cedar Court a special place. Your commitment to providing exceptional care and support to our residents is truly commendable."
The Mayor, Councillor Glenn Dennis, spoke to the tenants and the pupils from The Palmer Academy who came to read with them as well as share stories.
He said: “I want to thank each and every one of you who work here and make this a great place to live. Here’s to the next 10 years providing care, community, and companionship at Cedar Court.”
Katherine Druce, Assistant Headteacher of The Palmer Academy, said: “The children get to talk to new people and they get to learn from people who have experienced different things rather than reading it from a book. We hope to come back more often.”
Cedar Court is sheltered housing for people with care or support needs. The tenants live in private flats and are independent with some still working, but with the addition of support if needed.
Paul Gittings, Lead Councillor for Adult Social Care, said: “Cedar Court is a great example of how residents can live independently with the knowledge there is assistance on hand when needed.
“We have a vibrant and dedicated staff whose priority is to support the life which matters to everyone at Cedar Court. There is a programme of activities organised to promote health, wellbeing, interests, and companionship. We hope all the tenants remain happy in Cedar Court and their great facilities.”
Matt Yeo, Lead Councillor for Housing, said: “I’m delighted that Cedar Court is celebrating its 10th anniversary. It was opened in 2014 to increase our sheltered housing options for residents, and over the course of that time has provided high quality self-contained living for so many people in its 40 flats, with the added reassurance of 24-hour carer support and communal space.
“We are constantly looking to enhance our offering to residents of all ages through the new homes we are building, and upcoming Council developments in Battle Street and Hexham Road will help to provide even more sheltered housing options for our older residents.”