Sheltered housing sector has “much to offer”

Traditional approaches to managing the UK’s 600,000 units
of rented sheltered housing are no longer appropriate but the
sector still has much to offer, according to a report published
today, writes Simeon Brody.

Despite negative perceptions of the sheltered housing sector as
“past its sell-by date” there are “shining
examples of excellent, innovative, customer-focused
practice”, the Chartered Institute of Housing report
argues.

It says providers must embrace a wider vision of what shelter
housing can offer, such as a place for leisure and lifelong
learning, a resource for the wider community and an alternative to
residential care.

The report suggests residents are offered flexible services from
a menu of options and have a range of opportunities for inclusion
and involvement.

Schemes must also be able to respond to increasing numbers of
residents opting for direct payments, individual budgets or
floating support.

Sheltered and Retirement Housing from 02476 851 752 or pubs@cih.org