Orrell Lodge Residents' Association
Sefton
July - December 2024
Project Information
The Residents Association at Orrell Lodge, one of seven purpose-built Retirement Housing Schemes owned by One Vision Housing (OVH), identified a pressing need to address social isolation and improve the well-being of its residents. Following discussions with members and attendees of coffee mornings and other activities, the Association sought funding from OVH to implement a series of themed events throughout the year. The average age of residents at Orrell Lodge is over 75, and feedback from coffee mornings suggests that the mental health of many customers has been negatively impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. A key aim of this project is to increase footfall in the communal lounge, using small, engaging events to promote its use and encourage social interaction.
The proposed programme included several key events designed to foster community spirit and combat loneliness. A celebration of Older Persons Day in October offered refreshments, music, and entertainment for all tenants. A Christmas event provided a festive atmosphere with music, food, and small gifts. In addition to these larger events, weekly coffee mornings with complimentary tea and coffee will be held to provide a regular opportunity for socialising. The Association also planned to engage external agencies to visit Orrell Lodge, particularly to benefit those residents who are less able to leave their homes. These visits will include initiatives such as Sefton O.P.E.R.A armchair exercises and massage.
About One Vision Housing (OVH)
We are an award-winning housing provider offering high quality, affordable housing across the Liverpool City Region, Cheshire, Lancashire and Greater Manchester. We currently manage over 14,400 properties across the region.
We provide a range of rental options from Social Housing and Private Rent, to Rent to Buy and commercial lettings of shops, creating equal opportunities for all. We were formed in October 2006, following a successful stock transfer from Sefton Council, and operate as a not-for-profit organisation, regulated by the Regulator of Social Housing.
As a member of The Sovini Group, One Vision Housing believes in providing good quality, affordable homes for rent and to buy, helping to create thriving and inclusive communities. We work closely with partner organisations to build a better future for our customers, supporting thousands of beneficiaries each year.
Externally recognised as a leading provider of homes and services, One Vision Housing is graded G1 for Governance and V1 for Viability by the Regulator of Social Housing.
Our Approach
OVH's Community Development Fund is available for voluntary and community groups who want to deliver projects or services that benefit customers in our communities. The fund has been established to enable community and voluntary organisations to contribute to our vision for a better future. A total of £15,000 is available in the form of grants to voluntary/community groups.
The fund seeks to encourage community projects that contribute to the following five key themes: Vulnerable persons, support for local veterans, health & wellbeing, improved community safety, and community environmental initiatives.
Outcomes
The Orrell Lodge Residents' Association's project to combat social isolation and improve resident well-being has proven a resounding success. The series of themed events throughout the year, from the celebratory Older Person's Day gathering to the festive Christmas event, saw significantly increased footfall in the communal lounge. The weekly coffee mornings, with their welcoming atmosphere and complimentary refreshments, became a hub of social activity, fostering new friendships and rekindling old ones. Residents who had previously been withdrawn and isolated were now actively participating, engaging in conversations and enjoying the company of their neighbours.
The impact of the project has been clearly visible. Feedback from residents and their families points to a marked improvement in mental well-being, with many reporting a reduction in feelings of loneliness and isolation. The increased activity levels and social interaction have contributed to a more vibrant and supportive community atmosphere within Orrell Lodge.
Overall, 49 residents were able to benefit from activities funded by One Vision Housing's Community Development Fund, generating £47,472* in social value according to the HACT Social Value Calculator.
Beryl Hall, Treasurer of the Orrell Park Residents Group, said:
This project has made a real difference to life at Orrell Lodge. It's brought residents together, reduced loneliness, and made our communal lounge a much more welcoming place. We're so grateful for the funding that made it all happen.
Jane Moss, Orrell Lodge Scheme Manager, said:
We've seen some really positive changes at Orrell Lodge thanks to this project. There has been a noticeable improvement in resident engagement and a real buzz around the communal lounge. It's clear that the coffee mornings and events have helped to bring people together and combat social isolation. It's been a positive experience for everyone involved and demonstrates the real value of supporting these types of community initiatives.
*Social value figures subject to verification by HACT.