RNIB Cymru has awarded three Platinum 'Visibly Better' awards to one organisation simultaneously for the first time.
The Visibly Better accreditation scheme rewards housing associations and 'extra care' homes which have made their accommodation and services more accessible to blind and partially sighted people. Bronze, silver, gold and platinum levels are awarded to organisations that meet the specific requirements of the scheme and Linc-Cymru have now become the first in the UK to achieve three Platinum awards simultaneously.
Sarah Rochira, Director of RNIB Cymru, said: "We are delighted to be able to award Linc-Cymru the Platinum level accreditation in recognition of their demonstrable commitment to making their accommodation accessible to blind and partially sighted people.
"We know that one in five people aged 75 and over are living with sight loss, and so designing accommodation in a way that enables people to live safely and independently should be a priority for all housing providers; we hope that others will now be motivated to follow Linc-Cymru's example."
Mrs Rees is a tenant in Llys Enfys in Llanishen, one of the Linc-Cymru properties that has received a Platinum award. She says moving there in 2010 has had a life-changing effect: "I felt extremely isolated and unsafe before moving to Llys Enfys. The staff within the scheme and the design of the scheme itself has helped and supported me and I have regained my independence and confidence.
"The colour schemes on the different floor levels help me to identify the location of my flat. It is very helpful to me and I can easily identify communal furniture as the colours are bold and contrasting." The use of brail on the lift signs also makes life a lot easier for Mrs Rees; she is able to identify her location easily within the building.
The other two properties to receive the awards are Llys Glyncoed in Ebbw Vale and Plas Bryn in Fairwater.
For more information, please contact
David Watkins on 01792 325309.