A NEW community home for vulnerable patients who need temporary housing after leaving hospital has been launched in Blaenavon.

The new Bron Afon sheltered apartment in Baker Street was officially opened on Thursday and is the last of four intermediate care flats to be launched in Torfaen this month.

The cost of converting the Baker Street flat and the three other properties in Charston, Cwmbran, Talywain House in Pontypool and Kennard Court in Blaenavon was £65,000.

The units are designed to provide safe accommodation for patients who cannot go back to their home directly.

Bron Afon representatives revealed they are now seeking people to take advantage of the homes.

A spokesman for Bron Afon said: “Although these are temporary facilities there is no fixed time limit that people can spend in them.”

Torfaen Executive Member for Housing, councillor Gwyneira Clark, confirmed as a result of using the homes patients would be able to leave hospital sooner, therefore reducing delayed transfers of care.

Occupational therapists and building surveyors provided advice on the refurbishment of the flats, which include bathroom conversions, widened doors, fitted kitchens, complete re-decoration and non slip floors.

New furniture and fittings include fridges, freezers, televisions and DVDs and telecare alarms and sensors have also been installed.

Adrian Huckin, Director of Property at Bron Afon, said: “We were happy to get involved in this project and convert this property.

“It really is a fantastic facility to have in the area as it gives people the best of both worlds.

“They can live independently but with the added reassurance of modern safety equipment and regular contact from support workers.”

All referrals for the new accommodation must be made via Torfaen’s Intermediate Care team.

For more information call 01495 742590.