Grandfather is one step closer to new life in Bristol

Grandfather, Derek Blundell, 73, was in a celebratory mood today – Tuesday 14th August, as he officially became the first resident to exchange contracts at the new Stoke Gifford Retirement Village developed by the registered charity, The ExtraCare Charitable Trust.

Construction of the £53 million village is on course to complete soon with the first residents expected to move in later this autumn. The village, located near to the University of the West England campus, is a partnership between The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, a charity that exists to enable better lives for older people, and South Gloucestershire Council, Bristol City Council, and The Homes and Communities Agency.

Mr Blundell, whose two children and their families live abroad, will be starting a new chapter when he makes the move from Plymouth to the new village in Bristol. He comments: “I’m really looking forward to the move. My wife was ill for some years, life was dominated by her hospital visits and our social circle diminished. I’m hoping the move will give me the opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends.”

Once complete the village will boast 261 spacious apartments for purchase, shared ownership and rental with care and dementia support for those who need it. The local community, as well as the new residents, will be able to enjoy the unrivalled mix of social and leisure facilities including a village hall, bar and bistro, gym, hair and beauty salon, and corner shop. In addition, a timetable of wide-ranging and stimulating activities will be on offer to help residents stay healthy, active and independent for longer.

Derek continues: “I’m keen to pick up some old interests and may even start something new. I have more time on my hands now, so that’s what I intend to do, to get involved and get a new hobby.”

Thousands of older people have already benefitted from living in one of ExtraCare’s villages which is backed up by research with Aston University. The research project studied the charity’s award-winning wellbeing service, which is available to all residents, and found a significant reduction in the length of unplanned hospital stays and a further drop (46%) in routine GP appointments after a year.

Individuals interested in the Stoke Gifford Village can register their details on 0870 777 4800 or at new.villages@extracare.org.uk.