Supported housing to help people live independently

Thursday, 17 April 2025 12:50

By David Murphy

New housing to support those with mental health issues to live independently has come another step closer.

The derelict Topping Mill in Bury is currently being developed to provide 14 self-contained apartments, with support 24/7 from a team of staff to support residents’ mental health and individual goals.

Bury Council has now awarded the contract to run the service to Rethink Mental Illness following a competitive tender.

Topping Mill was an industrial mill constructed in the mid to late 1800s, and was occupied by the confectioners Scott & Rosse before they left in the 1960s.

The property has lain empty for several years, and is currently being re-developed by the St David Group, and due to be completed in June or July.

Four of the 14 apartments will be on the ground floor and fully accessible for disabled people, and there will be a staff area and residents’ communal lounge.

Bury Council will have 100% nomination rights in perpetuity for all 14 units

It is anticipated that residents will live in the scheme for up to a maximum of 5 years, so that people who require more sustained support for independent living can have the best chance for future tenancy success when they are ready to move into settled housing The care provider will support people to achieve personal move on goals to more independent living.

Councillor Tamoor Tariq, cabinet member for adult care, health and well-being, said: “Our analysis shows that Bury needs an extra 86 units of mental health supported accommodation to meet current and future demand.

“This scheme gives residents their ‘own front door’ apartments, and going forward we will be commissioning more self-contained supported accommodation and reducing the number of flats offering shared housing.”