Sheltered housing provides independent accommodation with support services for older people. It offers the perfect balance of independence and security, with help available when needed.
What is Sheltered Housing?
Sheltered housing is accommodation designed for older people that includes:
- Independent Living: Your own self-contained flat or bungalow
- Support Available: On-site warden or support staff
- Security: Secure buildings with safety features
- Community: Opportunities to socialise with other residents
- Peace of Mind: Help available in emergencies
- Maintenance: Property maintenance included
Who is Sheltered Housing For?
Sheltered housing is suitable for:
- Older People: Usually aged 55 or 60 and over
- People Wanting Independence: Those who want to live independently
- People Needing Some Support: Those who need occasional help
- People Wanting Security: Those who want a secure environment
- People Wanting Community: Those who want to socialise
Types of Sheltered Housing
Basic Sheltered Housing
- Self-contained accommodation
- On-site warden or support staff
- Emergency alarm system
- Communal facilities
- Social activities
Extra Care Sheltered Housing
- More intensive support available
- On-site care staff
- Personal care available
- More support services
- Suitable for people with higher needs
Benefits of Sheltered Housing
Independence
- Your own home with your own tenancy
- Make your own decisions
- Come and go as you please
- Maintain your lifestyle
- Privacy and autonomy
Security and Support
- Secure buildings
- Emergency alarm systems
- On-site support staff
- Help available when needed
- Peace of mind
Community
- Opportunities to socialise
- Communal facilities
- Social activities and events
- Supportive community
- Friendships and connections
Finding Sheltered Housing
Application Process
- Contact Providers: Contact housing associations and councils
- Check Eligibility: Check age and other eligibility criteria
- View Properties: Visit potential schemes
- Apply: Complete application forms
- Assessment: Assessment of your needs
- Allocation: Allocation of suitable accommodation
What to Look For
- Location: Is it in an area you want to live?
- Facilities: What facilities are available?
- Support: What support is available?
- Cost: Can you afford the rent and service charges?
- Community: Does it feel like the right community?
Costs
Rent
- Social rent (below market rates)
- Affordable rent (up to 80% of market rent)
- Service charges for facilities and support
- May be eligible for Housing Benefit
Service Charges
- Cover warden/support staff
- Maintenance of communal areas
- Emergency alarm systems
- Communal facilities
- Insurance
Your Rights
Tenancy Rights
- Right to a secure tenancy
- Right to privacy
- Right to have visitors
- Right to make improvements (with permission)
- Right to exchange your property
Support Rights
- Right to support when needed
- Right to be involved in support planning
- Right to privacy
- Right to complain
Moving On
If your needs increase:
- May be able to access more support
- May need to move to extra care housing
- May need to move to a care home
- Support should be provided with transitions
Browse Sheltered Housing Providers
Find sheltered housing providers in your area. These schemes offer independent living with support and security for older people.
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External Resources
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is sheltered housing?
Sheltered housing is independent accommodation designed for older people, usually aged 55 or 60 and over. It includes your own self-contained flat or bungalow with on-site support staff and emergency alarm systems.
Who is sheltered housing for?
Sheltered housing is for older people who want to live independently but with some support available. It's suitable for people who are generally independent but want security and peace of mind.
What support is available in sheltered housing?
Support includes on-site warden or support staff, emergency alarm systems, help in emergencies, social activities, and access to additional support services if needed.
How much does sheltered housing cost?
Costs include rent (social or affordable rent) and service charges for facilities and support. You may be eligible for Housing Benefit to help with costs.
What is the difference between sheltered housing and extra care housing?
Sheltered housing provides basic support and security, while extra care housing provides more intensive support and personal care services for people with higher needs.
Can I have visitors in sheltered housing?
Yes, it's your own home, so you can have visitors whenever you want. There may be some practical considerations, but generally visitors are welcome.
What facilities are available in sheltered housing?
Facilities can include communal lounges, guest rooms, laundry facilities, gardens, and sometimes shops or cafes. Facilities vary by scheme.
How do I apply for sheltered housing?
Contact housing associations and local authorities that provide sheltered housing. Check eligibility criteria, view properties, and complete application forms.
What if my needs increase?
You may be able to access more support in your current scheme, or you may need to move to extra care housing or a care home. Support should be provided with any transitions.
Is sheltered housing the same as a care home?
No, sheltered housing is independent accommodation with your own tenancy and support available when needed. Care homes provide 24/7 care and accommodation together.