BY AILEEN MURPHY

For anyone who feels they may like the security of living in sheltered accommodation but are worried they may be putting their independence at risk, then Barbour Court in Enniskillen will certainly dismiss any concerns they have.

The well-designed and maintained sheltered accommodation in Paget Square has been run by the charity Clanmil Housing since 1997, and all this week the complex will be opening its' doors to the public. So whether you are thinking of looking for a place in a sheltered home, or have simply walked past the building every day and wondered what is inside then this is the perfect opportunity to take a look around.

Far from being a nursing home Barbour Court offers independent living with back-up. There are 29 single units, and two double. Each is a self-contained apartment with living room, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. Then there are two communal areas where people are free to meet up for a chat, where they can watch tv, or use exercise equipment. A hairdresser visits once a week and there is also a guest room available for tenants to use if they have visitors.

Brian Forde the scheme co-ordinator is on-site from 9am to 2pm, and an activity co-ordinator is there from 2.30pm to 5pm. During these hours residents who need assistance while in their apartment simply pull a cord and Mr Forde can speak to them and see if they are OK or get them any help they may need. Outside office hours the charity's headquarters in Belfast are alerted when the cord is pulled and help is forthcoming. All units in Barbour Court are currently occupied and the age of residents range from 30 through to 90, with each able to utilise the services offered in Barbour Court to suit themselves. The Open Week at Barbour Court continues until Friday of this week. It is open from 10am-2pm, and from 2.30pm until 5pm Monday to Friday, with additional hours from 6 to 8pm on Wednesday to allow people working to come and look around.