Torus is set to open Spinnaker House, a modern 102-apartment affordable rent, Extra Care development in Rock Ferry, Birkenhead.

With the development due for completion later this year, this month saw Wirral Council and on-site care provider, Professional Carers join Torus on site to check out progress and some of the near-completed apartments.

Built on the reimagined former Rock Ferry High School site, off Highfield Road South, the £13.64m Spinnaker House development offers people aged 55+ their own high quality, self-contained apartment where they can remain independent for as long as possible, thanks to on-site care that’s flexible to individual needs.

Anna Jameson, Torus Supported Housing Commissioning Manager, said:

“A huge benefit of Extra Care complexes, like Spinnaker House, is that residents retain their independence but have the peace of mind that flexible onsite care is available if and when it’s needed. The idea is that, especially as people are living much longer these days, it’s a home for life with no need to move to more suitable accommodation if care needs ever change.

“Our Extra Care developments make a real impact in changing lives and it’s exciting to be able to bring Torus Extra Care to the Wirral and we cannot wait to see residents moving into the scheme to begin the next exciting phase of their lives.”

Spinnaker House offers modern apartments that have been specifically designed to provide a comfortable and safe environment for people with mobility issues.

The new residents aren’t the only ones to enjoy the facilities available at Spinnaker House. It’s hoped that the on-site Bistro Cafe and Hair & Beauty Salon, run by local businesses, will quickly become a popular venue for the wider community too.

On-site care and support, commissioned by Wirral Council, will be provided by Wirral-based care provider, Professional Carers, along with Torus Support Network housing team.

Carly Peckham, Director of Care Services, said:

“It was great to get to look around the scheme, I was really impressed with the amount of light space, especially in the apartments and communal areas. We are really looking forward to getting started and getting to know each resident personally, both to provide their care whilst ensuring that we understand what matters to them, including their hobbies, interests, and familial needs.”

Working at Spinnaker

As Professional Carers prepare for the opening of Spinnaker House, they will soon be opening up job vacancies to fill several Care Assistants and Senior Carer posts, expected to commence in Autumn 2024.

Talking more about job opportunities at Spinnaker, Gary Nagle, Professional Carers Director of Operations, added:

“We are excited to be able to offer a large number of caring job vacancies for the people of Wirral and beyond. We view ‘Extra Care’ as a community within a community, and these job roles will empower local residents throughout the Liverpool City Region, with the chance to care for those who once cared for us”.

“Our focus is to help those we will support to remain at home for as long as possible, so if you thrive on a challenge, have a natural flare for teamwork and have a passion for care, then this is the role for you. Get in touch with our team today to see how you can start a rewarding career with Professional Carers – we promise it’ll be the best decision you make.”

Get ready to apply by visiting professional-carers.co.uk or contact them direct on 0151 638 4500.

The development of Extra Care Housing across the borough is a priority for the Wirral Plan 2023-27 and the Wirral Housing Strategy. The work is delivered under the theme of ‘promoting independence and healthier lives’.

Graham Hodkinson, Director of Adults, Health and Strategic Commissioning for Wirral Council, said:

“The Extra Care Housing Programme being delivered by the Council will support older people and people with a learning or physical disability achieve greater independence and wellbeing, by giving them more choice over their care and housing options.

“Spinnaker House will contribute to the shift from residential and nursing care placements to community-based living, reducing the proportion of Adult Social Care expenditure on residential and nursing care for people aged 65+.

“After the recent site visit, Spinnaker is well on course to become another modern facility and fantastic asset for Wirral communities.”

As well as the facilities which are open to the community, the scheme also has exclusive facilities for residents, including a guest suite, spacious communal and social areas, lifts to all floors, laundry room, communal gardens, and assisted bathroom.

Works are being completed by trusted contractor, Anwyl and are due to be completed later this year.

Living at Spinnaker

The apartments are available for people over the age of 55 where there is a need for additional care and/or support that meets the eligibility criteria for Extra Care Housing. All the stylish new apartments are available for affordable rent and are being allocated via Wirral Council.

Residents will be allocated to this scheme by Wirral Council Adult Social Care, via a digital application and assessment process.

Find out more and check your eligibility