The Big Q

Len Smith – Gypsy activist
In the sheltered housing scheme near me the residents are
happy and integrated into the community. Perhaps such good practice
could serve as a model for others, as what works in one place has a
good chance in another. Nonetheless, all care schemes – including
sheltered housing – need ongoing review to ensure current needs are
met.

Karen Shook – Disability equality adviser
Residential care may be the choice of many disabled
people, perhaps because they need 24-hour nursing care or they may
like the social scene offered by many residential homes. What is
needed for sheltered housing schemes and residential care homes is
to offer a range of flexible resources and provide more choice.

Shaun Webster – Change self advocacy group
I would go for sheltered housing if given the choice.
People are there to support you but they don’t take over your life.
You don’t get so much privacy in residential care. In sheltered
housing you are more free to do things for yourself and it gives
you the confidence to do things for yourself. I like my
independence. 

Jaya Kathrecha – Carer
Sheltered housing is more like your own place with more
privacy and independence. A lot of older people in residential care
feel like they are just waiting to die. Some say that residential
care is less isolating, but residents often fall into a depression
and don’t want to make friends anyway. Some sheltered housing
schemes are beautiful.