Residents praise new scheme supporting independent living
Residents at a recently refurbished council-owned building, which was formerly used for sheltered housing, have praised a new scheme that is helping them on their journey towards independent living.
Published: Thursday, 18th September 2025
Salzgitter Court in Toothill was recently refurbished to bring 25 previously empty accommodation units back into use, delivering on a key ambition outlined in the Council’s Swindon Plan. Since opening in July, residents have begun settling into their new homes, and last week (11 Sep) they shared their experiences with Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Janine Howarth.
During the visit, residents spoke with Councillor Howarth about their personal journeys to Salzgitter Court, the positive impact of the support they’ve received, and their aspirations for independent living.
Dane, who previously was sleeping rough at local country parks, said: “Salzgitter changed my life. A lot of people here were in stressful situations but I’ve been able to make a lot of friends here, and it is a stepping stone to point us in the right direction. This scheme is something I’ve never known before in Swindon.”
Shaun also shared his story. He explained: “I used to live in shared housing and was really unsettled. This has made a real difference to me, and it’s great to know I can go to live in my own place after here.”
Before the refurbishment, the building was used to support sheltered housing tenants to move into accommodation better suited to their needs. The newly-renovated units were then made available to local residents at risk of homelessness, supporting the Council’s wider ambition to reduce reliance on costly nightly-charged accommodation and prevent the need for more intensive Council support.
Following her visit, Councillor Howarth praised the scheme’s impact: She said: “Each one of these residents has their own story to share, but the one thing that connected them in our conversation was their feeling of being safe and secure at Salzgitter Court. This project delivers on a key promise in the Swindon Plan to build a fairer Swindon. I’m proud that we’re not only preventing homelessness but also helping residents take meaningful steps toward independent living.”
In addition to supporting residents, Council officers at Salzgitter Court are working to strengthen community connections. The building is also serving as a local hub, offering access to services such as community policing, public health, community safety teams, voluntary organisations, and community navigators.