Royal Hill Independent Living Service is the first of its kind in the borough and opened in July 2024.
Greenwich has been recognised for its groundbreaking approach to supported living, with its Royal Hill Independent Living Service earning a coveted place on the shortlist for the Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Future Places Award. The service, which opened its doors in July 2024, is the borough’s first purpose-built home catering to people with learning disabilities and autistic individuals.
The LGC Future Places Award celebrates councils that use their resources innovatively, working with new suppliers to reduce carbon footprints, foster inclusivity, and embrace digital technologies to enhance public services. Royal Hill has exemplified this ethos, combining cutting-edge environmental design with a deep commitment to social inclusion.
A Model for Inclusive and Sustainable Living
Royal Hill Independent Living Service has been carefully designed to support its residents in leading independent and fulfilling lives. The state-of-the-art facility is not just a housing scheme; it is a community-centred initiative aimed at promoting well-being, autonomy, and a sense of belonging. The zero-carbon development incorporates a range of sustainable features, including an advanced internal clean air system, a low-carbon heat pump for central heating, and solar panels to generate renewable energy.
Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care, and Borough of Sanctuary, expressed pride in the project’s recognition:
“It’s fantastic that our trailblazing Independent Living Service has been recognised as an example of what the future of supported living could be.”
She added:
“Royal Hill is a testament to the council’s commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and dignity for all members of our community. The vision behind this initiative is that good health enables people to live their best lives. The project also demonstrates what can be achieved when collaboration and sustainability are at the heart of local government decision-making.”
Collaboration at the Core
The success of Royal Hill is a result of extensive partnership working. The council’s in-house Greenwich Living Options (GLO) service has played a crucial role in ensuring the development provides high-quality, person-centred support. Meanwhile, teams from the Place and Growth directorate worked to identify the ideal site and oversee a robust procurement process, ensuring that the right expertise was brought on board for the build.
Councillor Majid Rahman, Cabinet Member for Planning, Estate Renewal, and Development, highlighted the wider impact of the scheme:
“It’s Our Greenwich mission for new development to benefit our communities, and this facility does exactly that. It provides much-needed accommodation while prioritising residents’ health and well-being.”
He further emphasised the significance of the project:
“Royal Hill promotes independence and community resilience, reduces social isolation, delivers affordable homes, supports our carbon-neutral ambitions, and ensures equality of access for all.”
A Recognition of Excellence
The LGC Awards are regarded as some of the most prestigious honours in the local government sector, celebrating outstanding innovation and service delivery. With a record-breaking number of entries this year, making the shortlist is a remarkable achievement for the Royal Borough of Greenwich.
Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Council, acknowledged the dedication of all those involved:
“Winning an LGC Award is one of the highest accolades in local government. To be shortlisted, especially in such a competitive field, is an achievement in itself.”
He also extended gratitude to key partners:
“Partnership working has been key in making this service a reality. I would like to thank Golden Lane Housing and all the dedicated individuals who have worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life.”
The winners will be announced at a ceremony at Grosvenor House, London, on 11 June 2025, where the best in local government will be celebrated.
For residents affected by learning disabilities who need support in their daily lives, the Royal Borough of Greenwich provides a range of services to help. More information can be found on the council’s website.
