A new housing complex has officially opened in the heart of Wallingford, welcoming new residents looking for independent living with the reassurance of onsite care when needed.

Frances Curtis Court has been developed by Soha Housing, providing 75 new apartments for people over the age of 55.

Private buyers can contact Soha directly to express their interest in a property. Oxfordshire County Council can help people who meet certain eligibility criteria to move into extra care housing through schemes that offer affordable rental agreements across the county.

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Successful applicants are over 55 years old and have had a care act assessment through the council that records their personal support needs. They also need to be eligible for affordable housing. This criteria changes depending on where the person is applying.

In Cherwell, Vale of White Horse, South and West Oxfordshire a person will need to have less than £60,000 in income or personal funds. For Oxford City, the threshold is £16,000. A local connection to the area must also be demonstrated.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council cabinet member for adult social care, said: “Going forward, we are keen to improve coordination between the city and districts to ensure that adequate need for this kind of provision is reflected in their local plans that determine the housing mix for the future.”