CONSTRUCTION work on 78 new extra care apartments in Saughall Massie is nearing completion.

Poppyfields - which is due to open in the spring - will, according to housing association Alpha Living, "provide independent living for people over the age of 55 but with the reassurance of onsite care and support available 24 hours a day, if needed".

It promises a "safe and secure environment" with controlled access to the apartments from the central hub and an emergency call system in each apartment.

Facilities will include a restaurant providing a freshly-cooked two course meal every day, hair and beauty salon, residents' lounge, shared activities space and courtyard garden.

This means residents can combat loneliness by being part of a close community of people while retaining independence in their own apartment.

Wirral Globe:

New apartments form part of Poppyfields development

Graeme Foster, chief executive of Alpha Living said: "People that are likely to be eligible and will benefit most from Poppyfields will be those struggling to manage in their own home and needing a little extra help to live independently.

"Alternatively, those living in residential care but who would prefer the independence of a self-contained apartment with onsite care and support would be suitable.

"Those already identified as having a care and support need from Wirral's Adult Social Services will also be eligible.

"Our aim at Poppyfields is to provide independent living but with a helping hand to ensure that residents can concentrate on enjoying life without the day to day worries of security, maintenance or unfilled care needs".

To be eligible for an apartment you must be over 55, live in Wirral or have a local connection.

Those interested in an apartment will have a full assessment of their health and social care needs carried out by Adult Social Care at Wirral Council.

Simon Garner, lead commissioner for All Age Independence at Wirral Council said: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with Alpha Living to provide a range of opportunities for people to live independently in our community but with help and support on hand.

"The development of these new Extra Care homes at Poppyfields provides a fantastic addition to the range of specialist housing available for older people in Wirral".

Applications are now open for people to apply to move into the Wirral’s latest extra care development.

More information can be found at www.alpha-living.co.uk/poppyfields

To find out how you or a family member can apply to become a resident at Poppyfields email enquiries@alpha-living.co.uk or call 0151 346 1598 and ask for Andy Keelan.