Seven-figure loan funds supported living scheme and leads to new care jobs

A dilapidated engineering plant in Greater Manchester has been transformed into supported living accommodation thanks to a seven-figure loan from Unity Trust Bank.

Unity’s funding has enabled Bolton-based Homelife Holdings to demolish the former Albion Works in Mottram Street, Stockport, and replace it with 18 self-contained apartments, called Castlewood Court.

The four-storey building, built to energy-efficient standards, caters for adults with disability needs and includes a hub for care workers to provide round the clock support.

Fifteen new social care jobs have been created as part of the project.

Andrew Hopkinson, co-founder and director at Homelife Holdings, said: “We work with local authorities and care providers across the country to provide specially designed homes for people needing care.

“Each area has different needs and in Stockport there was a shortage of supported living accommodation for people coming out of hospital, as you can’t be discharged unless you have a suitable home.

“Castlewood Court is close to the town centre and provides residents with a home for life and the support they need to help rebuild their lives.”

He added: “We chose Unity because of their values. We’ve worked with them for six years because there’s an alignment with what we do and what they want to invest in. They are willing to support this model and this market.”

Day-to-day support for the new residents will be provided by Making Space, a health and social care charity which also delivers comprehensive training for staff to gain advanced industry qualifications.

Andrew Hopkinson

Andrew added: “This development is a win-win for everyone. Not only does it provide homes for people who would have had to remain in hospital, but it boosts the local economy through job creation and upskilling staff.

“It delivers a cost saving to the social care budget and an eyesore building has been replaced with a nicer one.”

Ian Heesom, relationship manager at Unity Trust Bank, said: “We’re proud to support Homelife Holdings as they design and deliver good quality accommodation for people who need care, giving them the help and security they need.

“They’ve provided specially designed homes for more than 130 people over the past six years and we’re delighted this latest development brings so many benefits to the community.”