Investing in independence - homes upgraded for community living

Wokingham Borough Council and Optalis have invested in updating homes for people who draw on care and support, so that they have somewhere to call their own.

In partnership with the council’s adult social care and housing teams, two homes in Woodley and Wokingham have been modernised for people supported by Optalis Community Living Services. 

Both homes were refurbished alongside the five people who are now living there, meaning it meets their needs and makes a difference to their everyday lives. 

These changes have helped create spaces where people can live with independence and a real sense of belonging. 

In both homes, people live alongside others with shared interests, building new friendships and enjoying fuller, more connected lives.

This reflects the shared commitment of the council and Optalis to the Social Care Future movement’s vision for transforming adult social care. 

Designing services with people who use them

At the heart of this vision is working in partnership with people who use the council’s services to design what they look like. 

The council and Optalis are doing this across Wokingham Borough, ensuring everyone has access to the right support and opportunities to live in a place they can call home.

In Woodley, two friends, Emma and Bella, have moved into a newly refurbished home on Crockhamwell Road. 

The pair, who share a love of karaoke, Ed Sheeran and board games, have quickly turned their new house into a warm and lively home. 

Bella was the first to move in a few weeks ago, “I came for a try out. It’s good because I already know Emma,” Bella shares.

She settled in quickly and was soon joined by Emma – someone she already knew from local groups. “My family helped me move all my things. I am busy every day,” she says. 

Together, they have created a warm and lively home, planning meals and cooking side by side. "We write the list and I do my food shopping on a Saturday," Emma explains. 

A new beginning, together

Meanwhile, after years of living in a house that had seen better days, Colin and Andy have found a new beginning in Wokingham.

The pair recently moved into their new home, leaving behind a property that had become increasingly difficult to live in. 

For Andy, the move has brought significant personal benefits. In his previous home, stairs had become a challenge. Now, with a spacious downstairs room, he feels more comfortable and independent.

The move to their new home marked a turning point. The men still remember the excitement of their first visit. 

"We came and looked at it, it was a beautiful house. We saw the rooms and were really excited, we thought this is going to be a great house," they said.

Since moving in, the trio has embraced a new routine and a sense of shared responsibility. Each of them contributes to the upkeep of the home, helping to create a space that feels truly their own. 

Brian, who joined Colin and Andy after living alone, has taken on outdoor duties. "I mow the lawn," he explained proudly. 

Colin, summed up, "I am happy here, it feels like home. I am really enjoying it," he concluded. 

A place where everyone can thrive together

Cllr David Hare, executive member for adult services, health and wellbeing, said: “We want Wokingham Borough to be a place where everyone can truly thrive.

"Working together with Optalis we’ve been able to provide an environment for these residents in their community which meets their needs and helps them live a healthy, happy life.

“I’m proud we’re doing this work in partnership and focusing on what really matters, listening to people who draw on care and support, and ensuring they have what they need.”

There’s more information on Social Care Future and getting involved on the Wokingham Borough Council website.