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National recognition for new housing scheme

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A state-of-the-art housing development for adults with autism in Wigan Borough has been shortlisted for a national award.

Mayfield House, in Orrell, is a centre of excellence and is one of only a handful across the country which provides housing specifically to suit the needs of someone with autism.

It has been shortlisted under the ‘Best Inclusive’ development category for the Inside Housing Development Awards 2018.

There are 12 self-contained apartments in Mayfield, each with a lounge, kitchen area, bedroom and bathroom, and some with a garden.

Residents are supported by staff who are available 24 hours a day and support people to live valued and meaningful lives.

The building has been specially designed to suit adults with autism and has features such as low level LED lighting, which slowly switches on when body movement is detected and off when there is no movement.

There are two communal areas, which have a kitchen and dining room, and an interactive immersive sensory room which can be used to play games, music or films.

The first resident to move into Mayfield earlier this year was 17-year-old Stephen Hart and his mum Sally described his new home as “like finding gold dust”.

The scheme cost £2.6million with funding from Homes England contributing to Wigan Council’s investment and was built by partner contractor Willmott Dixon Construction.

Cllr Keith Cunliffe, cabinet member for health and adult social care at Wigan Council, said: “Mayfield is a fantastic facility which will mean adults with autism can get tailored support to suit their needs while living independently and being part of a community. I am delighted it is getting well-deserved national recognition for being a life-changing scheme.”

Wigan Council is leading the way across the country to make people more aware of autism and provide a variety of ways to let people with autism play a vital role in their community.

It is looking to replicate the Mayfield scheme in two other areas of the borough to create more housing for adults with autism.

The winners of the Inside Housing Development Awards will be announced in November.

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