BHA launches independent living service

Berwickshire Housing Association has launched its new independent living service, which it said is "an innovative and re-imagined housing option", designed exclusively for over-55s, encompassing modern assistive technology, in partnership with Alertacall.  

Berwickshire Housing Association (BHA) offers a wide range of affordable housing options across its stock of 1,880 homes throughout Berwickshire.

According to the association, one of the housing options BHA is most proud to offer is its independent living service, with homes located at Boston Court in Duns, Gowanlea Court in Coldstream, and Linkim Court in Eyemouth.

BHA said that living as part of the local community is what makes its service special. It offers a lifestyle choice in an ambient setting for people to live independently, healthy and happy at home for longer.

The independent living service offers studios or one-bedroom apartments to choose from, all of which are finished to a high standard, with assistive technology to maximise people's independence.

BHA’s Operations Director Dan Blake said: “It has been a real privilege to develop our independent living service alongside our customers and in collaboration with our partners, Alertacall.

“Our focus has always been to take a community-based approach to our customers’ wellbeing. Our skilled teams, at the heart of these communities, continue to be our main strength across this model, however, coupling that with assistive technology has enabled us to ensure our people enjoy their independence with a blend of in person and virtual support at home.”

BHA’s staff are on site from Monday through to Friday to provide housing services to customers and that extra reassurance should they require it.

BHA launched its new partnership with Alertacall in December 2020 when it introduced the 'Housing Proactive' housing management service to all its independent living courts. All customers are provided with a tablet device upon signing up to their new home. This maintains regular contact with tenants using specially developed technology and a highly-trained contact centre team. The system confirms safety, improves tenant communication and gives individuals more flexibility in how and when they engage with their housing service all at the simple touch of a button.

Alertacall Director Martin Cutbill said: “We are thrilled to be working with BHA, which we successfully introduced at a time of many pandemic restrictions. Our Housing Proactive service substantially increases two-way communication between a housing provider and its customers, meaning BHA teams can work much more efficiently.

"BHA has developed a truly impressive Independent Living service, and we are absolutely delighted our service is at its heart.”

If anyone, or a family member, is interested in BHA’s Independent Living service then please register your interest with These Homes or get in touch on 01361 884000 for further information.