Part of leading UK housing and care provider Sanctuary, Sanctuary Supported Living provides personalised care and support through supported housing and related services to people across England. Established in 1969, Sanctuary is responsible for the provision of social housing, care and management services across England and Scotland. It owns or operates around 125,000 units of accommodation and employs around 14,000 people.
www.sanctuary-supported-living.co.uk (opens new window)
St John’s House Empowering independent living
Sanctuary Supported Living’s St. John’s House in Streatham offers long-term supported accommodation, where every aspect is tailored towards empowering people with physical disabilities; fostering independence and enhancing quality of life through innovative design and personalised support.
The impact that housing has on physical and mental health can’t be overstated - research by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) (opens new window) suggests that poor housing costs the NHS £1.4 billion annually. St. John’s House is a testament to how well-designed, supportive environments can contribute to better health outcomes and overall well-being.
Thoughtful design with customers in mind
Located overlooking Streatham Common, St. John’s House was strategically developed to maximise its potential, incorporating natural light, space, and accessibility into every aspect of the design. The building features 14 bespoke, accessible, and adaptable self-contained flats, each with an ensuite bedroom, lounge, kitchen, and dining area.
During the design process, customers play a pivotal role in shaping their homes, contributing to decisions on everything from interior layout and tech solutions to material choices and overall design standards. This collaborative approach makes sure that each flat not only reflects their personal tastes, but also meets their unique needs, and creates homes which offer practicality, comfort and a sense of ownership.
A hub of activity and socialisation
On the ground floor, a large communal lounge, kitchen, and dining area serve as the heart of the community, where people can cook, socialise, watch films, and participate in various social activities. The communal kitchen is fully wheelchair-accessible, including rise-and-fall worktops, cooking facilities, a rise-and-fall sink, hob areas, and a mid-height oven, enabling customers to build their skills and gain independence, while safely exploring the joys of cooking for themselves.
Innovative technology, tailored support
At St. John’s House, innovative support is integrated into the very fabric of the building. Assistive technologies, provided through Sanctuary Supported Living’s in-house Technology Enabled Living (opens new window) service, give reassurance and encourage independence. Movement-sensor lights in all communal area help to ensure safe and easy movement, and each customer has an individually programmed, hands-free fob to access their flat, the main front door, and shared spaces. Flats are also equipped with video intercom, providing greater visibility and safe communication with visitors.
Our staff take a whole-person approach to their work, including providing assistance with using smart devices like phones, tablets, and speakers, which complement traditional care and support by providing apps for healthcare, nutrition, exercise, reminders, banking, and connecting with loved ones. As customers are guided through their use of technology by staff they know and trust, they are empowered to navigate daily life in today’s digital landscape with greater ease and autonomy, while also maintaining strong community connections and a personal touch.
Committing to sustainability
Designed with sustainability in mind, St. John’s House incorporates eco-friendly measures that benefit both the environment and the people who live here. An air source heat pump complements gas boilers to maintain a regulated temperature throughout, while low-energy lighting reduces the carbon footprint. Sustainable wood has been used in the construction to minimise noise between the building and the adjacent road, enhancing the tranquillity of the environment. These initiatives reduce running costs while contributing to a healthier living space.
Engaging outdoor spaces
The accessible garden area includes four custom-built raised planters, designed for wheelchair users, and surrounded by solar lights. This outdoor space encourages people to engage in gardening and other outdoor activities together, further enhancing their independence and well-being.
Recognition for design excellence
St. John’s House has been named a finalist in the ‘Healthy Homes’ category of the 2024 Inside Housing Development Awards (to be announced later this month), following a £4 million remodelling programme that completely transformed the building to better meet customers’ needs. This recognition highlights the dedication and prioritisation of health and well-being that underpins every aspect of St. John’s House, ensuring that the people who live here can truly thrive.
“We are proud to be building modern, personalised services which are inclusive and customer-focused from the very beginning. We have put our customers at the heart of every aspect of making this building their home.”
Dave Shaw, Director, Sanctuary Supported Living
Sanctuary Supported Living is proud to sponsor the Housing LIN’s Extra care housing webpages.
Find out more about St John’s Housing (opens new window) in Streatham.