The Story of Foundation House
In August 2024, National Star celebrates ten years of Foundation House. In this blog we reflect on its inspiring history, acquisition, and commitment to supporting independent living for people with disabilities.
National Star is passionate about young people with disabilities having the right to live meaningful and fulfilling lives after college. However, to achieve that, young people need long-term accommodation that meets their needs and their aspirations. We knew, from student and family feedback that there were few opportunities for young people to live independently with their peers with the support and care that met their needs.
When National Star heard about a care property under threat in Gloucester, we jumped at the opportunity. We believed that long-term care could be innovative and person-centred.
We made that belief a reality with the opening of Foundation House 10 years ago. Since then, we have opened three further long-term residences in Cheltenham, Malvern and Hereford. National Star is proud to be called home to 32 adults.
The history
In 2014, the Gloucester property, then known as Hertha House, came to our attention. The home was closed and the property was scheduled for demolition. Two residents launched a campaign to save it. The young men refused to leave despite living with limited electricity or water and with their windows barred. They managed to keep the utilities running for the two independent flats.
National Star was asked to help. The result was Foundation House which is home to 14 adults. It provides 12 registered care beds and two supported living flats. It has evolved into a close-knit family. ‘When you come to work, remember you are working in their home, not in an office,’ explains one of the Foundation House team.
Chief Executive Officer Lynette Barrett was involved with the plan in 2014. ‘I had the honour of leading the project as then Director of Residential Services,’ she says. ‘It was a very different direction for the charity, but the need was so great that we didn’t hesitate. All but one of those first residents are still with us which is a tribute to the team who work so hard to make Foundation House a proper home.’
10 years of Foundation House
The sense of community is summed by the parents of Andy who moved into 10 years ago. His parents thought he would return home after college, but Andy had different ideas. He wanted to live with his peers and to be as independent as he could be. He moved straight from college into Foundation House.
‘Within the first week at Foundation House we could see how happy our son was. He goes out with his fellow residents to the cinema, pub and music festivals,’ explain his parents. ‘His key workers share his love of cars, computer games and heavy metal music. Andy’s favourite part of the week is when all the staff and residents sit down together for Sunday lunch.’
The sense of community at Foundation House continues to grow and flourish. The adults who live there have formed deep friendships and enjoy each other’s company. They regularly organise music and movie nights, days out and holidays together.
Smart technology is being introduced so that residents can do more for themselves. Work is planned for next year to renovate the downstairs kitchen so that residents can grow their independence in the kitchen.
Life at Foundation House revolves around those that live there. It’s only right that they have the last word.
“I would never want to move away from the standard of National Star care because you can’t get it anywhere else.” – Annie, Foundation House resident
Join our waiting list
We are actively looking to expand our long-term living provision in the coming years. If you are interested in joining our waiting list, please email admissions@nationalstar.org.
