A supported living scheme for people with mental health conditions was officially opened in Smith’s Wood recently marking the near completion of the village centre by the North Solihull Partnership.

Aviary House on Burton's Way provides self-contained flats enabling people with complex mental health issues to live as independently as possible. Specialist staff are on hand 24/7 to offer tenants support as and when needed.

The supported accommodation, owned and managed by Home Group, complements a number of retail outlets on the new high street including a Spar Shop and Post Office. There are also community facilities, office accommodation, a brand new primary school and new houses have been built on the site of two demolished tower blocks. Plans are now in place for a new health centre to complete the village centre.

A total of almost £20m has been invested in the village centre so far. Part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the Homes and Communities Agency.

Vicky Sharp, Home Group Senior Client Services Manager, said: “The regeneration of Smith’s Wood has given us an opportunity to create a brand new building which is ideally suited to the needs of our clients. We’ve been warmly welcomed by the community and have established great links with the nearby primary school. The area has excellent facilities including shops which our clients use. We look forward to being a part of the community for many years to come and being part of a neighbourhood which flourishes.”

Solihull Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, Councillor Karen Grinsell said: “Aviary House enables people with complex mental health conditions to live with minimal support so that they can enjoy near independent lives whilst still being able to access support as and when they need it. Since the opening of Aviary House, we have consistently seen improved outcomes for tenants’ which has in turn saved the Council money.

“I am delighted that we have such a scheme operating in Solihull, offering local residents excellent facilities at an affordable rate.”

Solihull Council's Cabinet Member for Environment, Housing and Regeneration, Councillor Ken Hawkins added: “The opening of Aviary House is the penultimate piece of the jigsaw in creating a brand new village centre in Smith’s Wood. Being located in the heart of the centre, tenants can take advantage of the fantastic new facilities that the centre has to offer and really feel part of the community.

“The North Solihull Partnership recognises that people’s health is important so along with Aviary House, we are also working towards a new health centre in Smith’s Wood centre, the final piece of the jigsaw.”