How Extra Care helped one resident gain back their independence

When Michael (known as Mick) moved into Reverend Bill Baker Court in Lincolnshire in July 2021, his life had changed dramatically. 

After suffering a serious brain injury, he found even the simplest tasks challenging. Everyday life had become difficult, and his independence felt like a distant memory. 

But thanks to the support of Extra Care, his determination, and the welcoming community at Reverend Bill Baker Court, he has been able to rebuild his confidence and regain his independence.

What is Extra Care housing?

Sometimes called sheltered housing or assisted living, Anchor’s Extra Care housing locations offer self-contained rented properties where professional on-site support is available 24 hours a day. Our Extra Care properties are designed for people who are still independent but who require help with things from time to time, which may include assistance with catering, personal care, or wellbeing.

Moving into Extra Care housing was a crucial step in Mick’s recovery. With on-site support available 24 hours a day, he was never alone when he needed help.

It is very welcoming and homely, if you are ill, you are not alone - you have the support to help you. Everyone is very friendly, and it is great for social activities.

You can discover more about our housing with Extra Care here. 

Making progress with the right support

Debbie, the Location Manager at Reverend Bill Baker Court, has seen first-hand how much progress Mick has made.

Moving into Extra Care has helped him immensely with his recovery. It was a very slow process at first, he couldn’t do some simple tasks, but with care and sheer determination, he has turned it around to live a wholesome life. When he moved in, he was on high care, and now he’s on low care.

Helping residents stay active and connected within Extra Care housing

For Mick, one of the biggest joys of regaining independence has been rediscovering his love for gardening. 

Having run his own gardening business for ten years, spending time outdoors again has been invaluable.

I love being outside, and I’m just so happy that I am now well enough to do small jobs around the garden to make a difference.

His enthusiasm hasn’t gone unnoticed. Recently, he decorated two old plant pots at the front of the building and has already spoken to the gardener about choosing plants for them.

I like that people appreciate it and comment when I have done something. It has given me a purpose again after my brain injury.

At Anchor, we provide Be Well resident wellbeing services to help people living with us stay active, healthy, and feel part of their community. Find out more about these services here. 

How our Extra Care Location Managers help with this

Debbie recognises how important hobbies like gardening are for residents. 

It helps with his mental state. He loves being outside in the garden, making a difference.

Extra Care locations offer a range of activities to keep residents engaged, from coffee mornings and bingo to therapy animal visits and live music performances. Managers get to know the residents living in the estate and can help sign post them to activities they think they will enjoy.

These activities provide opportunities for social interaction and ensure residents continue to feel part of a thriving community.

Extra Care housing benefits 

One of the most significant advantages of Extra Care is the balance between support and independence. 

Debbie explains:

People can still live an independent life in Extra Care. They can still make their meals or use the restaurant. They can come and go as they please, and there’s always a carer on-site 24 hours a day. It helps residents feel safe, reduces isolation, and encourages socialising.

When considering their future needs, some people can decide that their current home, perhaps somewhere they have lived for many years, might not be right for them in later life. In this situation making the right kind of move is very important. Our online guide to making the right move here discusses the different types of housing options available at Anchor, and can help you to work out whether housing with extra care is the right option for you.

Friendly Extra Care Location Managers

Mick has credited the support of the Extra Care Location Manager as key part of his positive experience.

I really like having an on-site Location Manager because she is always there for any help or advice I may need. She is always smiling and very cheerful.

Mick’s journey at Reverend Bill Baker Court is a testament to how Extra Care housing is transforming lives. 

Extra Care housing support 

Anchor’s rented Extra Care properties provide support to residents with a wide range of needs, including 24/7 help via our Anchor on call emergency care service. 

From needing high care when he first arrived to now living with minimal support, Mick has regained his confidence and is once again living a fulfilled life.

Moving here has given me the confidence to do everyday tasks I could not do when I first moved in. I am now living a very fulfilled life.

For anyone considering Extra Care for themselves or a loved one, Mick has no hesitation in recommending it.

Moving to Reverend Bill Baker Court has helped me immensely. Although my recovery has been slow, I truly believe I was in the best place for me to recover. Yes, I definitely would recommend it.

How do you know if Extra Care Housing is right for you?

Debbie agrees that Extra Care can be the perfect solution for those who need support but still want to live independently.

If someone cannot manage in their own property anymore and needs care but still wants to live independently, Extra Care is the answer. Their loved ones will be well looked after in a safe and happy environment.

Anchor Extra Care Housing in your area

Mick’s story is just one example of how Extra Care can help people live independently while receiving needed support. If you or a loved one needs a little extra help but still wants to enjoy an active, fulfilling life - think Extra Care.

Learn more about how our Extra Care housing services could support you or a loved one, and find a property in your area.