New future for sheltered housing

Date published: 07 September 2010

Council bosses are revitalising sheltered housing to make it more viable and attractive to older people.

With nearly one third of the current stock consisting of bedsits, some of which share bathroom facilities, a number of schemes are proving unpopular with prospective tenants and becoming harder to let.

A further 255 units need improvement to bring them up to modern accessibility standards and enable people with more complex needs to be supported at home.

To address this, the council has reviewed all its sheltered schemes and also produced a Housing Strategy for Older People to help respond to customers’ needs.

The council is now seeking views on how best to improve the overall quality of sheltered housing and the future of individual schemes.

Councillor Michael Hankey, cabinet member for health and well-being, said: “People want a place to live that meets their needs, but some of our stock struggles to meet modern requirements. Local assessments have provided us with some options but we want to find out what is important to the people most affected and gather views on how we can improve accessibility, dignity and choice.

“With uncertainty around public finances it may appear to be an odd time to be doing this, but not addressing the issues also costs money through properties remaining empty. Choices will have to be made and, by consulting widely, we are hoping to have an open discussion and involve people in the future development of services.”

Pat Jones-Greenhalgh, executive director of adult services, agrees. “It is clear from local and national research that older people need a range of housing options to suit their individual circumstances. Sheltered housing has a key part to play in this providing it delivers decent quality, affordable living. I see this as an opportunity to revitalise the sector by ensuring suitable housing is available for those people who need a little more help.”

Consultation will be undertaken with tenants, ward councillors, Six Town Housing and other providers outlining all the options available, including the council’s preferred option.

A final decision will be made by the cabinet member for health and well-being, provisionally set for 30 November.