Devonshire Place in Norwich was built by Iceni Homes for Cotman Housing Association on behalf of Julian Housing Support who provide care and support to the residents.

Comprising 20 self-contained flats for people with severe or enduring mental health problems, it represented a radical departure from the usual institutional care setting. It also built on an experimental pilot project Bakery Court, which was opened six years ago. Bakery Court proved that, given the opportunity, individuals who had previously led chaotic lives, in and out of care homes and acute psychiatric wards, could with enough support maintain a tenancy.

It was the first scheme to be carried out under the Greater Norwich Housing Partnership, in partnership with Cotman Housing Association and Julian Housing Services. Revenue funding came from Norwich Social Services, Primary Care Trusts and Supporting People.

Devonshire Close is a very self-contained community and is staffed around the clock, with a care-worker’s flat on-site, together with a communal lounge and kitchen, offices and two guest bedrooms.

The £1.9 million scheme took 17 months to build from start-on-site to completion.