Age-exclusive housing schemes

Age-exclusive schemes are becoming increasingly popular. Several modern purpose-built schemes have been developed across Staffordshire in 2018 and 2019.

Common features of age-exclusive schemes include:

• self-contained accommodation in flats with kitchen, bathroom, lounge and one or more bedrooms
• design features helpful for older people or people with a disability. These include wider doorways, raised electrical sockets, lowered worktops and walk-in showers 
• communal facilities including a laundry, lounge, guest rooms and gardens
• eligibility is usually restricted to people aged 55 and over
• there is no manager or warden on site 
• they are usually available as private rent, leasehold or shared ownership 

Costs

• Weekly service charges vary from scheme to scheme.
• They tend to be lower than housing with support and care on site as they do not include scheme management or access to out of hours care.
• Service charges are on top of any rental or purchase costs, council tax, water rates and energy bills.
• They are likely to include contributions towards the upkeep, repair and cleaning of communal areas.

How many are there?

As at November 2019 there are 116 age-exclusive schemes in Staffordshire.