Decision details

To consider the findings from the recent Sheltered Review, undertaken at request of Shareholder Committee, and make recommendations for future changes.

The Deputy Leader of the Council agreed the recommendations as outlined above namely:

1. To agree that the minimum automatic age of sheltered is raised from 55 to 65, to fall more in line with national policy and to more accurately reflect the demand.  Exceptions should still be made for people under this age on a needs basis, with particular sensitivity to those 55+ who may be preparing for old age.

2. To agree the principle that the schemes identified as “red” in section 6 of the report be de-commissioned and turned into general needs stock, and that this should be done in a phased way, over time with updates being given the Shareholder Committee.

3. To agree the principle that investment is made in the remaining identified “amber” schemes to bring them up to the standards expected for the future, with costs built in over-time to the annual Housing Revenue Account Capital Programme.

4. To agree to continue to work on the new scheme at Grange Park to make it a flagship scheme, and also ensure that any further new/replacement schemes are designed to a high standard suitable for older people.