Neath AM, Gwenda Thomas, has welcomed an announcement from the Welsh Labour Government to help older people remain in their homes.
The Care & Repair movement in Wales is to receive new funding of £1.5 million for Independent Living Grants to help older people in Wales remain safe and well in their own homes, Welsh Labour’s Housing Minister, Huw Lewis, has announced.
The £1.5million will be distributed to the twenty-two Care & Repair agencies in Wales and will be spent on home adaptations such as stair lifts and walk in showers. The objective of this grant is to help address ‘waiting lists’ for adaptations, to maximise independence and to help relieve pressures on hospital acute admissions and to help speed up hospital discharge.
Mrs Thomas said:
“Older people in Neath and across Wales want to remain in their homes for as long as possible.
“By providing help with small changes around the home Welsh Labour is helping older people remain in their own homes and easing the pressure on the NHS.
“I know many of my constituents have already benefitted from the help Care and Repair offer. I would encourage anyone who thinks they may benefit from this funding to call Care & Repair on 01792 321122.”
Huw Lewis AM, Labour’s Minister for Housing, Regeneration and Heritage, added:
“Small changes can make a huge difference and that is especially true in the case of the Care and Repair service. Minor home adaptations can help a person remain in their home and live independently with the dignity they deserve.
“The service also helps ease pressures on health and residential care, preventing unnecessary stays in hospital or care homes.
“I am delighted that Welsh Government funds are being used to help make such a difference to people’s lives in Neath.”
