A GLASGOW organisation is refurbishing two homes to allow adults with learning disabilities to move out of hospital and live a more independent lifestyle. 

The neighbouring detached bungalows in Kirkintilloch will be bought by Glasgow's Health and Social Care Partnership (GCHSCP) to accommodate eight long term hospital residents, with the financial aid of the Scottish Government's Community Livng Change Fund.

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The new homes aim to offer enhanced community living for adults with learning disabilites and give them greater independence after living in hospital. Residents will have their own en suite bathrooms, as well as communal living, kitchen, dining and garden spaces. 

Families and carers of the residents will also be involved, helping to redesign the properties which were formerly owned by the NHS.

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This project overtakes a previous plan to build a small care home, which families felt would not help their loved ones gain enough independence. 

Councillor Mhairi Hunter, Convenor for Health and Social Care, said: “The HSCP listened closely to feedback from families and carers and changed its plans accordingly. It will continue to involve the service users and their families in this exciting new development as it progresses.

“I believe this plan will truly transform the lives of people with learning disabilities for the better, including people who have been in hospital long term despite being able to do everyday tasks like cooking for themselves. It will offer them greater privacy and personal freedom, as well an opportunity to live in a homely environment with relevant support and to become part of the community rather than living in an institution.”

The bungalows are currently empty, and it is hoped that refurbishing them for the hospital residents will bring them closer to loved ones. 

Mhairi continues: “Refurbishing the bungalows, which have been vacant for a long time, will enhance the neighbourhood and people currently accommodated outwith Greater Glasgow will also be able to move back closer to relatives and carers.”