The UK government has brought together a team of experts to improve housing for older people and alleviate the housing crisis
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities worked alongside the Department for Health and Social Care to create a team of experts to lead the project.
The team will report to the government on how housing for older people can be improved.
The team will focus on ensuring a variety of housing options for older people are being offered by the government.
It is hoped older people in the UK will have a greater choice in where they live. Providing housing for older people will help reduce costs in the social care and health sector and allow older people more independence in their homes.
Two million bedrooms could be freed up
Nearly 70% of UK households have more bedrooms than they require, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS). There are around three million older people who want to downsize to more suitable housing but are unable to do so.
If they were able to downsize, it would free two million spare bedrooms, effectively resolving the housing crisis.
The team had their first meeting yesterday (16 May) at Grace House, a retirement living scheme in St John’s Wood.
“Older people must have access to the right homes in the right places that suit their needs,” said housing minister, Rachel Maclean.
“I have seen first-hand today how good-quality homes have greatly improved the lives of older people. The Taskforce’s important work in the coming months will help support our commitment to delivering quality housing across the country,” she continued.
Directors from charities such as Age UK, the chair of the Home Builders Federation, local government leaders, CEOs of housing associations and health and care professionals are part of the task force.
The taskforce will listen to concerns surrounding housing for older people
The team will be led by Professor of Nursing, Julienne Meyer. The team will speak to residents and their families about their experiences and concerns around housing for older people. These issues may include age, affordability, and consumer protection.
“I am excited to be working with such an expert group, and really glad this important work is now getting underway. I’m going to make sure that the voices of older people are heard at the heart of this taskforce. So, one of the things I want to focus on immediately is putting people first and consumer protection,” said Professor Meyer.
The team will consist of three subgroups focusing on older people’s priorities, housing and the financial options available. They will work closely with local planning authorities to deliver a wide range of opportunities for older people.
The Taskforce will run for up to 12 months, producing an independent report to DLUHC and DHSC.
“We’re pleased to host the inaugural meeting of the Older People’s Housing Taskforce at Grace House, and hope that the visit helps inform and inspire the group when considering how housing can be shaped by those that live there and adapt to their changing needs,” concluded Emma O’Shea, chief operating officer at Aster Group, who campaigned for the taskforce for several years.
