The 10 residents of Norton Place in Exmouth have celebrated 20 years of their supported living scheme, which opened in July 2004.

The residential development off Salterton Road consists of six bungalows and two flats which are owned by Sovereign Network Group and staffed by Westward Housing. The residents, who have learning difficulties, live independently but get help with managing finances, reporting repairs, following hobbies and interests and learning new skills. Many of them work or volunteer locally.

At the 20-year anniversary event, residents were joined by family members, friends, Westward Housing and Sovereign Network Group staff, and board members. Westward Housing presented the residents with a new bench and a plaque marking the occasion. A cream tea was provided by the local Tesco community champions, and there was a bongo playing session outside.  During the day photos and slides were shown of Norton Place events over the last 20 years.

A spokesperson for Westward Housing said: “We support these customers on timescales far longer than most of our other projects, which has its own challenges and rewards. We want the customers to feel safe and supported but to be able to try new experiences and take risks in a managed way when they want to. This project is their home for life and is quite unique in that regard.”