Baile An Rí – An 18-unit scheme consisting of 16 X 2 bed & 2 X 1 bed bungalows

Description

These homes completed in 2020 are part of Clann’s dedicated age-friendly housing service. They have been built following the principles of universal design which supports older people or people with disabilities, to remain at home and live independently for as long as possible. Sustainable initiatives include photovoltaic panels, which capture the sun’s energy and generate on-the-spot free electricity to residents. In addition to beautiful green space and raised beds, there are generous parking facilities on scheme, for both residents and visitors. There is a great openness to the scheme facilitated by two access gates, giving a real sense of connectivity with the wider local community.

Aim of Initiative

Baile An Rí is set in a community of both Private & Council owned properties which has given residents the opportunity to downsize whilst remaining in their community. It is built in a convenient central location to main shops and within easy pedestrian access to the town centre. The design follows Clann’s concept of universal design with wet rooms and level access throughout. The scheme fits well into the landscape and is low lying and non-obtrusive to its locality.

Who is it aimed at

Baile An Rí is a perfect model for Age Friendly Housing because it follows the key principles for effectively housing our older population. This can be replicated across other schemes, with initiatives such as:-
Communal spaces to encourage residents meet and socialise.
Emergency Call System installed in every home.
Close working relationships with the HSE to support residents to leave congregated settings and with Social Care providers to promote independence and wellbeing.

3 Steps critical to success

1. Location of the scheme
2. Design of the individual houses & overall scheme
3. Energy Efficiency

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Enabling residents with disabilities or physical difficulties get involved and be more active on the scheme. After collaboration with the Irish Council of the Blind (NCBI), to address the needs of one of our visually impaired residents. Clann facilitated the painting of lamp posts and electrical boxes in a defined colour on the scheme. This has enable this resident to get out of her home and get her daily walk with ease.
2. Working in partnership with the HSE and Mental Health Ireland has allowed us to facilitate and support residents sustain their tenancies. The scheme manager works closely with multi-disciplinary HSE staff, for example nurses, social workers, home helps and care providers, to promote independence and wellbeing of the residents. There are 39% of the residents in receipt of a range of community supports, linking in HSE & mental health services.
3. N/A

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. The scheme’s location promotes self-sufficiency, with all amenities within walking distance. There are excellent public transport links and transport infrastructure around the scheme and in the town of Ballinasloe.
2. The scheme has been designed to promote safe, comfortable and accessible areas for older people. All units are on the ground floor with their own high-security composite front door, giving them a great sense of safety and autonomy. The homes are very spaciously laid out with ample wet room space to facilitate support and assisted care when needed. Each home has an integrated emergency call system, which residents can activate if they feel fearful or wish to contact emergency services, and housing support aids can be added as the needs of each resident change.
3. All 18 units have high energy efficient systems installed. The heating system provides both heating and hot water on demand. Combined with high levels of insulation which gives the units A3-B1 BER rating, these elements ensure the houses are easy to heat, retain that heat and keep heating bills low.