Supported housing scheme celebrates 20 years of helping people live independently

A North Star-owned supported housing scheme in South Tyneside has celebrated 20 years of helping adults with learning disabilities live independently and make a home of their own. 

Simonside Court opened in October 2006 and provides 10 purpose-built, self-contained shared bungalows.  

For the past 20 years, North Star and support provider Creative Support have worked together at the scheme. Creative Support provides residents with care, support and recreational activities, while North Star provides and manages their homes and tenancies. 

To mark the scheme’s 20th birthday, residents, families, staff and partners came together on Friday 2nd October for an afternoon of celebrations, including speeches, a buffet and a special video featuring customers sharing what life at Simonside Court means to them. 

Resident Joanne said: 

“I really like living here because you get time with friends and opportunities to do things you enjoy.” 

Gary has lived at Simonside Court since it first opened. When asked what he loves most about living there, he summed it up in two simple but important words: 

“I'm happy.” 

Residents also praised the support they receive from staff, describing them as “friendly”, “caring” and “helpful”, and thanked North Star Supported Housing Officer Helen Simpson and South Tyneside Council. 

James Walder, Chief Executive at North Star, said: 

“Twenty years is a fantastic milestone for Simonside Court. 

“The fact that so many people have made Simonside Court their long-term home says a lot about its success and the strength of the partnership between North Star and Creative Support. 

“At a time when supported housing across the country is facing increasing pressure, Simonside Court shows exactly why it matters. It gives people a safe place to call home, the independence to live their lives and access to support when they need it. Its future must be protected.” 

The anniversary celebrations took place ahead of the first National Housing Federation Supported Housing Week, taking place this week (19th-23rd October), which shines a spotlight on the life-changing role supported housing plays in helping people live independently and thrive.