Sheltered housing is a group of unfurnished self-contained flats specially designed for the elderly. They provide secure accommodation without people having to give up their independence. The accommodation includes communal areas, such as a lounge, kitchen and garden where residents can socialise.
A resident warden is on duty from Monday to Friday during normal office hours. Each flat has a 24-hour community alarm system, to ensure residents can get help if they need it any time of day or night.
Wardens organise social activities such as coffee mornings and sightseeing trips. Other services available to residents include hairdressing, exercise classes, and weekly visits from mobile libraries and independent meal delivery companies.
How to apply
Sheltered housing schemes are usually run by local councils. Different councils or housing associations can have their own criteria for deciding who is eligible. Applicants will normally go through a formal assessment process. There is sometimes a waiting list for sheltered housing.
Supported and extra-care housing
A step along from sheltered housing – you can live in your own home, knowing that 24 hour care and support is available if you need it. It is ideal if you are frail or less able to manage on your own. Properties can be either for rent or sale.
Day care, home care and residential care
For more about help with staying at home, adapting your home or preparing to move into residential care, see our Adult Social Care section:
East Sussex County Council