Osprey Housing takes over student block to create new supported flats

Former student accommodation in Aberdeen’s Garthdee neighbourhood has been given a new lease of life after social landlord Osprey Housing took over ownership earlier this year.

In the first partnership arrangement of its kind for Osprey in the city, Osprey is managing the block of eight one-bedroom flats while Affinity Trust works with Aberdeen City Health & Social Care Partnership to meet the needs of tenants with a mix of complex needs.

Osprey has a number of supported units across Aberdeenshire and Moray enabling young adults to live more independently with the right level of support and this latest addition aligns with the organisation’s value-driven approach to delivering housing for those in need.

The Garthdee property was acquired by Osprey in January and      the single occupancy flats — previously used by Robert Gordon University students — have been fully refurbished to include new kitchens, boilers, and bathrooms. Each flat also now has a utility smart meter and benefits from true fibre connectivity.

The first tenants have already moved in, said Osprey Director of Housing Dan Thompson. ‘We’re delighted to have worked proactively with both Aberdeen City Council and Affinity Trust to deliver much-needed supported accommodation within the city.

‘This partnership has been a great example of how organisations can work effectively together to meet specific aspects of high demand on the local housing market.  These units have been refurbished to a high standard, emphasising our commitment to delivering secure, high-quality homes to our tenants.’

Affinity Trust Operations Manager Billy Blackley said: ‘Our role is to actively support each individual tenant to maintain their tenancy and enable them to become independent with everyday life skills.’

He added: ‘A safe, secure home is the foundation to life, and these properties are life-changing for the people we support.’

ACHSCP Adult Learning Disabilities service manager Katharine Paton said: ‘This development will be a very valuable addition to our supported accommodation portfolio.

‘We are working closely with Osprey and Affinity to ensure the supported tenants settle quickly and seamlessly into their flats and make them into their homes.’