First Minister Carwyn Jones said an Abergavenny housing project was “breaking down the barriers” by providing vulnerable residents with vital independence and support.

On a visit to the Old Hereford Road development on Thursday, the First Minister saw first-hand the valuable contribution the One Place programme makes to residents, who live independently despite dealing with challenging conditions.

The event, hosted by Monmouthshire Housing Association chief executive John Keegan, showcased the new development, with the First Minister and Labour assembly candidate for Monmouth, Catherine Fookes visiting and chatting with residents.

Mr Jones praised the programme, which supports residents to live as independently as possible by encouraging a daily structure guided by a dedicated team of support staff.

“The last thing we want to see is people in an institutionalised setting when they can be living in independent accommodation like the one I am visiting today. In a small country like Wales, we can break down the barriers between the different practitioners.

“We need more of these developments around Wales to make sure that we deliver vital services to the people who are most in need,” he said.

Mr Keegan expressed his delight at the visit, underlining the “successful relationship” between the housing association and government in making the project a success.

“I am really happy that Carwyn Jones has visited us today. He’s just been to see the residents; they are over the moon. It’s what makes the job worthwhile.”

Mr Keegan added that he and his team hoped to build upon the project’s success in future.

Ms Fookes, who is currently vying to displace Nick Ramsay AM from the Assembly’s Monmouth seat, said that if she was elected, further projects and affordable housing would be her top “priority”.

“I was delighted to talk to the residents of One Place about how their new housing has transformed their lives. They are happier, healthier and more confident than ever before.”