Grŵp Cynefin building a special community in the centre of Denbigh

With Grŵp Cynefin’s extra care housing scheme in Denbigh now completed, staff at the new £12 million scheme are looking forward to welcoming its new residents in the new year.

Awel y Dyffryn is Grŵp Cynefin’s most ambitious project to date, comprising of 42 two-bedroom and 24 one-bedroom apartments for older people who want to live independently in their own homes, but with care and support available should they need it.

An open day on Thursday, January 2, will offer anyone interested in the scheme for themselves, a family member or friend an opportunity to come and see the facilities. If interested, a time slot must be booked by contacting Grwp Cynefin on post@grwpcynefin.org or 0300 111 2122.

The scheme is the result of collaboration between Grŵp Cynefin and Denbighshire County Council, with local contractor R L Davies of Colwyn Bay taking on the building project on the former Middle Lane school site in Denbigh town centre.

The building is designed around landscaped gardens, with areas for socialising, a hairdressing salon, laundry room, restaurant and comfortable, modern flats which residents can decorate and furnish to their own taste.

Noela Jones, Grŵp Cynefin's Head of Neighbourhoods, said:

"We are very proud of our extra care housing schemes. Extra care schemes are not the same as care homes. Instead, what we're offering is apartments for one, for a couple or two people to create a home for themselves with their own front door and complete independence.

“They can come and go as they want and freedom for friends and family to visit as they wish. There are also a range of social events and activities if they want to take part, and daily lunch in the restaurant is an opportunity to catch up, socialise and enjoy a nutritious meal.”

With new manager Manon Jones in place, Awel y Dyffryn is also expected to establish itself as a vibrant hub within the Denbigh community, with regular activities between the residents and the  community, schools and local clubs. Manon is keen to hear from  people who are interested in renting a flat there for themselves, family members or friends.   

“The most important thing if you think you will benefit from living somewhere like Awel y Dyffryn, is to apply,” she says. “We can discuss any care needs, help with arranging services and also help find benefits available if needed.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing a close-knit, vibrant community flourishing in Awel y Dyffryn.”

Cllr Bobby Feeley, the Council’s Lead Member for Well-being and Independence, said:

“We are extremely proud to have worked in partnership on this important project for our residents with Grŵp Cynefin.

“Awel y Dyffryn will provide a range of facilities and support which will help older Denbighshire residents maintain and improve their independence, while also supporting our communities to be more resilient.

“We look forward to welcoming the first tenants to their new homes in the new year.”

Those interested should contact Grwp Cynefin on post@grwpcynefin.org or 0300 111 2122. Further information is available on their website.