Darwin Court housing scheme developed by Peabody Trust in Elephant and Castle, Southwark, is to receive the European Wel_hops Housing Design Awards tomorrow in recognition of its best practice and excellent housing design for the elderly.
More than 45 European housing schemes were evaluated by Wel_hops (Welfare Housing Policies for Older People) with Darwin Court being one of only 12 European housing schemes to receive the award.
Wel_hops, a European Union part funded project aims to promote independent living and improved housing conditions for older people across Europe with partner countries from Italy, Spain, Sweden, Hungary and the UK involved in the project.
The Darwin Court scheme was recognised for its achievement in promoting independence and high quality of life amongst its residents, but additionally it also showcased best example of community integration and providing extensive range of facilities for its residents including a sizable swimming pool.
The scheme, a six storey building with purpose-built facility provides a model for future care for the over-fifties as well as facilities for the local community. It offers fitness, healthcare and training as well as 76 flats designed as "Lifetime Homes" to incorporate the facilities required to meet the changing needs of older people.
Delighted Stephen Howlett, chief executive of Peabody Trust says, "We are honoured to receive this award from Wel_hops. This award not only recognises our achievement at Darwin Court for being one of the best elderly housing scheme in Europe, but reinforces our belief in building homes that will adapt to the changing needs of its residents as well as offering benefits to the whole local community."
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For further press information, please contact Peabody Trust's Communications Department on (020) 7021 4210 or email.
