The comprehensive Older People’s Housing Strategy is aimed at improving housing options and support from now until 2030. It was approved at today’s (Thursday 19th June) Housing Policy Committee meeting having gone through two rounds of public consultation.
It covers owner-occupiers and people who rent their homes either privately or from a social landlord, and the strategy will be delivered alongside the many organisations who provide housing, advice and information in the city - in consultation with residents.
In this country, older age is often considered to be 65 and above. We recognise that older people are not one group and people biologically age at different rates. This strategy will tackle the housing issues that might affect all people as they get older to improve the housing choices and support that will be available to them – enabling them to live independently at home for longer.
The strategy will focus on:
Improved housing choice
It will increase the range of housing available for older residents. This includes both mainstream, age-friendly housing for independent living as well as specialist options designed for the unique needs of older people.
High-quality and safe homes
Emphasis is placed on ensuring homes meet modern safety and quality standards. The aim is to make houses not only warm and energy-efficient but also equipped to support older residents’ needs.
Enhanced support and services
The strategy promotes closer working between housing, health, and care services. By improving connectivity with local amenities and services, the strategy ensures residents stay well-informed and supported, reducing their reliance on care homes when alternatives are suitable.
There are estimated to be around 100,000 people aged 65 or older in Sheffield. Their contribution to the city is invaluable. Of those 100,000 older people, some 11,000 provide at least 19 hours of unpaid care a week, and more than 8,000 are in employment.
Sheffield also has a growing and increasingly diverse older population. Between this year and 2040, the number of people aged 65 and over is expected to increase by 21%, and by 26% for people aged 85 and above.
The Council has worked closely with residents, community groups, housing providers and other partner organisations through the two rounds of consultation. Their input has been vital in shaping policies that reflect the true needs of Sheffield’s older population.
There are related health considerations to plan for. Most people would prefer to live independently in their own home for as long as possible, but to make this a reality health, care and housing services need to be better integrated.
Meeting older people’s needs will require an increase in accessible and adaptable mainstream homes - including those that are designed for multi-generational living. This also requires more specialist housing providing varying levels of support and/or care. It is estimated the number of properties available to rent is below where they should be, and part of this strategy will look at addressing that shortfall.
Many Sheffield residents took part across the two periods of consultation on this strategy, and we thank every single one of them for taking the time to help shape this.
We know that most people want to be living independently in their own homes for as long as they can. To do that, their homes need to meet their needs and be affordable, warm and climate-ready for the future.
Cllr Douglas Johnson, Chair of the Housing Committee at Sheffield City Council
Having appropriate housing options for the city’s residents will also help us to provide better and more appropriate health and social care provision.
By working hand-in-hand with local communities, we are creating solutions that not only meet today’s needs but also prepare us for the future.
Cllr Angela Argenzio, Chair of the Council’s Adult Health and Social Care Committee
For more information on the strategy, head to the Council website.
