Sheltered housing

Sheltered housing usually consists of properties grouped together. They might be blocks of flats or small estates of bungalows.

Local district or borough councils and housing associations are responsible for providing sheltered housing. They will operate a waiting list and usually apply an age restriction or other eligibility criteria. Properties may be available to rent or buy.

Common features of sheltered housing developments include:

• self-contained properties with kitchen, bathroom, lounge and studio or one or more bedrooms
• properties are designed for older people or people with a disability. They include with features such as raised electrical sockets, lowered kitchen work tops and walk-in showers. Some (but not all) of the properties are wheelchair accessible
• an emergency call system built into the property
• communal spaces including a lounge, laundry and garden
• managers or wardens are on site during the daytime or live close by. Their job is to manage the scheme and support residents arrange services or to access the help they need 

Costs

• Weekly service charges vary from scheme to scheme.
• 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 and scheme management.

How many are there?

As at November 2019 there are 164 sheltered housing schemes in Staffordshire.

Contact your local district or borough council for information on sheltered housing available in your area. They will be able to tell you how to find out about housing associations and how to register for housing.