Official opening of older people scheme in Ruthin following £12.2 million expansion project

Llys Awelon extra care housing scheme in Ruthin, Denbighshire received its official opening today, with the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales in attendance.  

The extra care housing facility, owned and managed by Grŵp Cynefin housing association, has been upgraded and expanded to the tune of £12.2 million, and now offers independence to even more older people in Denbighshire.  

As well as a complete upgrade of the previous building, the three-year expansion project has increased the number of homes on the site from 21 to 56, offering older residents the comfort of independent living with the reassurance of on-site care and support available, if needed.  

With £7.1 million in funding from the Welsh Government, the upgraded scheme features a range of communal amenities including landscaped gardens, communcal areas, a hairdressers and a restaurant. It builds on the welcoming, vibrant and supportive community that makes Llys Awelon such a valued part of the wider community.   

Welcoming residents, staff and a host of key partners, Grŵp Cynefin Chair Tim Jones said: 

Three years ago yesterday, our partners came together on this very site for a sod-cutting ceremony, marking the beginning of the work. And here we are today – at the end of the building project, but at the beginning of a new chapter for Llys Awelon.  

This project is the result of a strong and meaningful partnership between Grŵp Cynefin, Denbighshire County Council, and Welsh Government.  

“Reads Construction have led the build, and of course many other companies and individuals have played a vital role.  This has been a truly collaborative and constructive journey, and we’re proud of what we’ve achieved together. 

“We are especially proud and honoured to welcome the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies. This endorsement means a great deal to us.”  

Rhian Bowen-Davies, Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, said:  

As the Older People Commissioner, people often speak to me about the importance of home, that it’s not just bricks and mortar, it’s where we feel safe, it’s where we have comfort it’s where we have companionship. And it’s where we want to remain and be independent and for me that’s so important. And from what I’ve heard and seen today, that’s how Llys Awelon feels, it feels like home. 

Councillor Rhys Thomas, Lead Member for Housing and Communities at Denbighshire County Council, said: 

“It’s a pleasure to be at Llys Awelon today for the official opening of this special building. Caring for the needs of our older population is one of the Council’s priorities. Working in partnership with Grŵp Cynefin has enabled us to achieve the goal of creating a modern, comfortable and welcoming building for a community of local residents.” 

Resident Cyril Jones spoke passionately about the unique, warm and supportive community that’s at the heart of the Llys Awelon community.  

“Care, comfort, companionship and friendship – I have all those here and I have something that we all treasure – we’ve got our independence. We have a key to our front door – privacy, independence, comfort and care.  

“I have little saying, yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift and that’s why we call it the present. Thank you for everybody involved in the present that we are enjoying here in Llys Awelon.”  

Attendees and residents were treated to  a  performance by pupils from Ysgol Pen Barras, Ruthin, which has a close and valued relationship with the Llys Awelon community. Also present were representatives from local community groups who received grants through the Llys Awelon project, reflecting the wider impact of the scheme. 

For more information or interviews, please contact Mari Williams, Marketing and Communications Manager, Grŵp Cynefin

Mari.Williams@grwpcynefin.org / 07970 142 305