Altamira Act provides long-term supported housing for women over 50 years old with backgrounds of institutionalized living, complex needs and homelessness. This model of housing provides secure supported housing in one bedroomed apartment units in an attractive setting .The project supports those who by virtue of their incapacities and coping difficulties, are vulnerable and at risk in our society. From a complex need perspective “this model of supported housing is essential for their human survival with dignity”.

The process of resettling into the community for people with complex needs and institutionalization is challenging. It requires that they give up certain learned defenses and habitual ways of behaving which were adopted as the norm in their previous living environment. The service provides a pathway to independent living.

In order for the process and housing model to succeed it needs to happen hand in hand with supportive programmes and social solidarity. The service helps residents overcome fear in relation to relocation, it supports them coping on their own, assist with care planning and attendant night staff provides security and support.

This housing model is a collaborative effort between ACT Thomond House, the HSE, and Limerick City and County Council. The housing support services of Associated Charities Trust are backed up by the Statutory Multidisciplinary Homeless Action Team (L.H.A.T.). The Altamira housing complex is under lease from Limerick Social Services Council Ltd. The scheme consists of 10 one bed roomed self catering apartments, caretakers unit, office and meeting rooms.