PLANS for at least 300 additional homes for adults with additional needs will be discussed by councillors next week.

According to the plans, due to be discussed at cabinet on Monday, the 'Extra Care' scheme could see people with additional needs, older people and those with learning disabilities given greater choice and control to live as independently as possible.

Cllr Chris Jones, cabinet member for adult care and health, said: "Extra care housing isn't simply about providing a home with the right support and care; it provides a lifestyle and a place that is integrated into its community.

"Extra care housing brings with it an improved quality of life for individuals by reducing isolation, integrating assistive technology and increasing community participation for users.

"As the schemes advance, relevant links with GP services, health clinics and employment services will be established.

"Along with these improved benefits for residents, this is set to deliver social and financial benefits to the wider community.”

A range of schemes across Wirral will provide a means for people to remain living in a home on their own while also being provided with the right support as they grow older and their needs change.

Cllr Jones continued: "The predicted number of people requiring extra care housing is set to rise steadily by 2030.

"The Extra Care housing schemes take into account this increase and ensure that residents across Wirral will continue to have access to high quality care, on their terms."

The development of the Extra Care housing schemes has been supported through the All Age Disability Partnership Board consisting of a range of groups and third sector organisations who support the development of assistive technology, occupational therapy services, employment and adult learning services.

The board’s input has allowed the needs of different groups requiring extra care housing to be considered throughout the planning process.

While a number of units were expected to be built by 2020, due to significant delays on central government's decisions regarding funding for Extra Care schemes, the timescale will not be met for them all.

However, with 300 homes mentioned explicitly in the council plans, this project will actually aim to deliver a greater number of units by 2021/22.