A NEW six-bedroom, purpose -built respite facility for adults with learning and physical disabilities has been officially opened by its namesake.

Former county councillor Felicity Hindson cut the ribbon to the £2.4million state-of-theart building in Warwick Road, Winklebury last week.

Hindson House was developed in response to the Learning Disabilities Transformation Consultation in 2011, during which time Mrs Hindson was executive member for adult social care at the council.

The consultation identified the need for more specialist accommodation including ground floor rooms and specific care equipment for people with complex physical needs which the previous respite facility, Dalewood, did not have.

It is the first purpose-built adult respite bui lding constructed by Hampshire County Council.

Mrs Hindson spoke of the important role respite services play in supporting those living with disabilities, and their carers.

She said: “A break can make a world of difference. Hindson House offers the opportunity for a ‘state-of-the-art’ break to help those who are very often living with challenging and complex conditions.

“I am deeply honoured to have this much-needed facility named after me and to be invited to formally open it.”

The facility provides six accessible en suite ground floor rooms, with a sensory room and bathing facilities.

A beautifully designed garden includes areas for relaxation, as well as an outdoor pizza oven, used for the first time at the opening event.

Council leader Roy Perry said: “Being able to access the right support is extremely important for people with disabilities and those who care for them.

“Demand for respite care across Hampshire is changing, particularly among younger adults. People want choice, the most modern facilities and a comfortable and relaxed environment.

“ I am particularly proud of the design o f Hindson House , which was developed by engaging with those who use respite services, their carers, staff, health professionals – and the county council’s own in-house property services team who are experts in design and construction.”

Steve Clow, assistant director of HCC’s property services, added: “We spent a great deal of time liaising with staff and users so we could design spaces to make sure they matched the aspiration and weren’t institutional.”

The facility has proved so popular work is now being planned to provide two more accessible ground floor rooms.