Headway Court celebrates founders with new plaque | Tenant news

Habinteg’s Headway Court scheme in Rusthall, Kent celebrated its thirtieth anniversary in August with the unveiling of a new commemorative plaque for its founders Pam and Michael Munro.

Pam Munro MBE, and her husband Michael founded the scheme - a small development of eight accessible flats for head injury survivors - in 1995, after their son, John, survived a head injury.

Headway Court was the first housing scheme designed for head injury survivors to live independently in Kent, and it remains the only such scheme in the county.

Unveiling the plaque

The plaque was unveiled by Rusthall, Langton Green and Speldhurst Councillor, Jayne Sharratt, who is also the editor of local magazine Rusthall Life. Speaking at the event, Ms. Sharratt said: “I’ve been a resident of Rusthall for 17 years, so it’s an honour to be asked to do this.

“Headway Court residents have become valued members of the community and its testament to this housing scheme that they have a safe place to live.

“What a debt of gratitude we owe to Pam and Michael for their vision 30 years ago, to create such a secure and happy home.”

Great place to live

Resident Chris Perry has lived at the development since it first opened. Mr Perry said: “Pam and Michael worked really hard to make this place happen.

“It’s a great place to live… it’s nice, safe, and quiet in a village with a lively community café… Tunbridge Wells is also easily accessible by bus.

“I’m one of a few residents here with a lifetime tenancy and it offers a real sense of security.”

Andy Moody, a resident at Headway Court for 27 years, said: “It’s great that Pam and Michael are being honoured with this plaque…and happy thirtieth birthday to Headway Court!”

Supporting independent lives

Headway Court has nine residents living in its eight flats, who share the communal garden.

Habinteg’s Surrey and Tunbridge Wells Neighbourhood Coordinator, Karen Blissett, said: “It was a fantastic day…it was great to see everyone getting together to celebrate such a big occasion.

“Headway Court is the legacy of Pam and Michael’s hard work and determination, so we are so pleased that we are able to remember them with a plaque.”

The event took place on 19 August, and guests included Headway Court tenants and local councillors along with members of the local community and Habinteg staff.

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