Introduction

A significant number of Newcastle's older residents live in tower blocks. Some tower blocks have been designated for people aged over 60 years. The Community Flats was established in response to an obvious circumstance: living in tower blocks can be isolating because of their design. For example, while sitting, a resident is below the level of the window sill and is unable to see anything happening in the street. Where previously people would have enjoyed walls, gardens, streets and people the immediate environment of tower block flats consists of lifts, corridors and closed doors. Isolation was recognised to be affecting residents physically and mentally.

The Community Flats project is a partnership arrangement between:

• the residents of tower blocks
• CSV Newcastle.

The project uses one flat within each block as a resource centre for residents. We cannot adapt the flat in any way - so that it can revert easily to a dwelling if necessary - therefore it is essential that the space available is used to greatest effect.
^ back to top

Working Together

Volunteers and residents work together and we strive to support a sense of community spirit, with residents supporting each other in addition to input from CSV. Our role is:

• to work with residents in establishing the requirements of a community flat
• to work with residents to support them in establishing a management committee to manage the flat
• to support residents in the day-to-day activities and running of the flats
  
• to recruit, train and support volunteers who work with residents.
  

Currently CSV supports the operation of three Community Flats in Newcastle. Each flat is in a different area of the city and has presented different needs. We work alongside staff from social services and housing. Surgeries held within the flats enable residents to have access to services without traveling. Residents and CSV staff and volunteers are able to contact relevant people when they are needed.
^ back to top

Meals & Activities

We offer reasonably priced and balanced meals which are cooked on the premises at two of the flats. This offers the opportunity to mix with neighbours over a healthy dinner and is especially relevant to single people who do not cook or rely on "convenience" food.

Activities are arranged to suit the tastes of the residents who initiate their own fund raising activities to pay for trips, parties and craft equipment and materials.
^ back to top