MORE than a quarter of a million pounds is to be spent in Herefordshire to help those with learning disabilities live more independently.

Part of the Department of Health’s housing and technology capital fund, the £285,500 funding will aim to encourage the expansion of suitable housing across the county.

The cash will also enable Herefordshire Council to provide automated doors, video door entry and personal lifeline systems.

‘Just Checking’ equipment, an easy-to-use online activity-monitoring system is designed to give more independence in the home, while giving peace of mind for family and friends, and ‘Brain in Hand’ mobile technology offers support for those who are out and about.

The funding will help residents across the county but will focus on 12 current supported housing schemes for those with learning disabilities in Hereford, Leominster and Ross-on-Wye, which will benefit up to 90 individuals.

Said the council’s director for adults and wellbeing, Martin Samuels: “We are delighted that our assistive technology scheme has been recognised by the Department of Health with the award of such substantial funding.

"It is a truly worthwhile scheme which will benefit a number of residents across the county with learning disabilities.”