A new extra care housing development in Faringdon has officially opened, giving older people the chance to live independently with care and support available when required.

Delivered in partnership by Housing 21, South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils, and Oxfordshire County Council, Fern Meadows offers 60 modern, self-contained homes – 45 for rent and 15 for shared ownership – designed for people aged 55 and over who have care needs.

So far, 53 residents have moved into the scheme, with more due to follow in the coming months.

Extra care housing enables people to have their own front door and private apartment while accessing flexible, personalised care that adapts as needs change. The approach is a key element of the Oxfordshire Way – the county council’s commitment to helping people live well and independently within their communities.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: "Fern Meadows shows exactly what modern care looks like.

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"People deserve independence, dignity and a real sense of community – and this is what extra care housing provides. It's vibrant, social and designed around the person, not the other way around.

"We're proud to open this new scheme in Faringdon and give local residents more choice in how they live their lives, with support available when they need it. This is the Oxfordshire Way in action."

Facilities at Fern Meadows are intended to help residents stay active and connected. They include a welcoming café/bistro and hair salon open to the public; a spacious residents’ lounge and activity room; communal gardens; a guest suite for visiting family and friends; secure storage for mobility aids; a dedicated on-site housing manager; an independent care team; and care staff on site 24/7.

The development has been designed to provide a warm, accessible setting that promotes peace of mind, companionship and a strong sense of belonging.

Darren Herbet, Deputy Head of Extra Care South at Housing 21 said: "Housing 21 is a leading provider of safe, high quality, and affordable homes for older people, empowering residents to live independently.

"We currently operate over 700 housing schemes, providing 24,000 homes across the country, and we continue to grow. As the UK's population ages, we remain committed to developing more modern, accessible homes.

"We are delighted that Fern Meadows is the newest addition to our expanding Extra Care portfolio. It has been designed to create a vibrant and inclusive environment that offers residents both privacy and independence.

"The scheme will serve as a community hub for Faringdon, offering opportunities for local people to connect, participate and benefit from the services and activities available."