UP to 80 new jobs are set to be created in Netherton when a new supported living service opens its doors next month.

The service, run by Precious Homes, will provide homes for 25 people with autism, learning disabilities and physical disabilities and will be based in the former Nethercrest Residential Home on Brewster Street.

The site will also include a community cafe, called The Foundry, which will be open to the public.

Greg Lapham, CEO of Precious Homes, said: "The new services have been developed in partnership with Golden Lane Housing, a leading social housing landlord for people with a learning disability, in response to demand for this type of bespoke care in the local area.

"It is really important to us that we build strong links with the local community and are looking forward to throwing open the doors of the on-site cafe, inviting local groups to share the space as well as hosting events and activities which will help to create a community hub in the area.”

A recruitment drive is also set to take place to use the skills of people in the local area.

Graham added: “Our mission is to offer care and support that encourages independence and improves the quality of life for the people we support. Having the right people working for us is absolutely vital to the award-winning care and support we are known for. When the service is full, we’ll employ around 80 people. We offer full training, support and development opportunities to all of our support workers - making this an opportunity which really is open to all.”

The centre will host an open day on Thursday, March 5 for those wishing to take a look around the service.