Prince Edward visited the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability in Putney last week to open the new wing of Haberdasher House, the extension of the charity's Transitional Rehabilitation Service (TRS).

His Royal Highness met with patients, residents and staff and also heard how the TRS enables brain injured people to take responsibility for their everyday actions and prepare for independent living. This is the first scheme of its kind in the UK.

Haberdasher's House is situated in a residential estate outside the main grounds of the RHN. The accommodation allows people to explore new skills and strategies in a real life setting, supported by a team of rehabilitation assistants.

Angus Somerville, Chief Executive at the RHN, said: “We hope the TRS will become yet another important stage in the journey towards independent living for more people.”

The design of the new apartments is based on expertise gained from the old building.