THE VALE of Glamorgan's first extra care housing scheme was officially opened in Barry this week.

On Tuesday, April 28 Welsh Government Minister Lesley Griffiths opened the £7.2m building, which provides living accommodation for people over 55 in the centre of Barry on the site of the former Theatre Royal cinema.

Within the building tenants have access to a range of facilities including a restaurant, hairdressers, laundrette, communal lounge and IT suite.

The scheme, built in partnership by Hafod Care Association and the Vale of Glamorgan Council opened last October and is already helping to transform the lives of local people.

Eric Hand, 80, is the sole carer for his wife Gill, 78, who has Multiple Sclerosis and is in a wheelchair. They moved into Golau Caredig after finding their day to day life in their home increasingly difficult.

Gill said: “Our old flat was too small. It was difficult getting out of the house and we were becoming very isolated.

"Our lives have completely changed, we have plenty of space and help is on hand should we need it.

"We’ve made lots of friends and we can get out to the shops easily, Eric’s even been able to start playing bowls again.”

Lesley Griffiths, Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty said: “I am delighted the Welsh Government has invested funding of just over £5 million in Golau Caredig.

"This wonderful Extra Care facility is enabling tenants to lead active, independent lives, while receiving all the support they need.

“The scheme not only provides high quality accommodation and care, but also boosts the local economy through apprenticeship and job opportunities.

“I hope all of the tenants will be very happy in their new homes.”

In addition to providing much needed homes, the development has also created 50 local jobs.

Councillor Neil Moore, Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council said: “I am really pleased that at long last the Vale of Glamorgan has a purpose built extra care facility which has been too long in coming. I am also very pleased at its location within the heart of the town where residents can access a multitude of amenities and are close to transport links."