Kerry unveiled the new name plaque at Phoenix Place on Pump Lane in Bristol, which was formerly known as Townsend House, on Friday, January 22.
Alistair Allender, Chief Executive of Elim Housing Association, which owns Phoenix Place, said: “We were delighted Ms McCarthy and also Paul Smith, Labour Party’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Bristol West, were able to join us to officially help declare Phoenix Place open.
“The building, which offers a safe and comfortable environment for up to 55 women, has been renovated and work done includes a new gas central heating system, new windows and doors throughout, an energy efficient electrical system and refurbishment of the kitchens and bathrooms.”
The funding to support the project has been provided by the Homes and Communities Agency, which is the national housing and regeneration delivery agency for England, and by Elim Housing Association.
Resident, Marisa Scott, who chose the name ‘Phoenix Place’, says she is delighted with the renovation. She added: “Phoenix Place is a wonderful house that gives women a safe environment and enables them to re-gain their independence. The refurbishment has made it much nicer inside and it is a comfort to all residents.”
As well as choosing the name, Marisa also wrote a quote for one of the signs that reads: “Because when we arrive we are burnt out and close to the end...When we leave we have risen out of the ashes and are flying free and strong.”
All residents at Phoenix Place receive a planned and individually agreed support programme that can include Skills for Life training, access to specialist support from external agencies, pregnancy and parenting support and a night security service.
Kerry said: “I’m honoured to have been asked to unveil this plaque. This is a hugely valuable project that provides a lifeline to the women who use it. It’s great news that the renovation has taken place to provide an even more comfortable space in which they can feel safe and work to get their lives back on track.”
Also attending the re-launch event were staff and board members from Elim Housing Association, BJP Consulting Group Ltd and the construction company Seddons, as well as some of the property’s residents.
Alistair added: “The project’s aim is to support residents so they develop skills for independent living, education and employment. The accommodation comprises 22 flats in which up to five residents share facilities and there are three self-contained flats for those who are almost ready to take on their own accommodation independently.
“You can apply for a place at Phoenix Place by asking your support worker to make a referral if you are already in stage one supported accommodation, by making an appointment with the Housing Advice Team on 0117 914 1188 or by contacting Social Services in Bristol on 0117 914 1698.”
Elim Housing Association is a registered social landlord in the UK. It operates in Gloucestershire, the Midlands, Bristol and North Somerset, as well as South Wales and London.
The Association provides affordable rented accommodation for single people and families, and a range of sheltered and shared housing for people with support needs. Elim also manages shared ownership housing in Bristol.
For further details about Phoenix Place or to visit the project, please call 0117 9273844 or email phoenix@elimhousing.co.uk.