Sheltered housing

This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. This page applies to England only. Get advice relating to Scotland

If you are considering your housing options and want to know more about sheltered housing, this section provides a brief overview and some helpful links.

What is sheltered housing?

Sheltered housing gives older people the independence of having their own flat with the security of having an alarm system and a warden. The flats are usually small self-contained units or single rooms in a complex, which often has a communal social area. It is possible to find sheltered housing to rent or to buy.

What does the warden do?

The sheltered housing staff should check on you every day and should be able to assist you in an emergency. They would not be expected to provide care or do things like shopping.

Can I get additional care?

If you require additional services, you can still have care provided by the social services department, such as meals on wheels, or someone to come in to get you up in the morning, or to help you wash, or do your housework.

Alternatively, you could move into very sheltered housing or extra care sheltered housing, where services such as meals and personal care are usually provided.

Who provides sheltered housing?

A number of housing providers have sheltered housing complexes. These include councils, housing associations (to rent, for shared ownership, or to buy outright), and voluntary organisations, such as Abbeyfield or The Almshouse Association.

Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC) has information on housing options and a directory of advice services to help you if you have any problems or need further information.

Do I have to rent sheltered housing or can I buy?

It is sometimes possible to buy a flat in a sheltered housing complex. If you already own your home, it may be easier for you to buy than to rent, as home owners are usually not given priority on waiting lists to rent from the council or a housing association.

How do I pay for sheltered housing?

How you pay for your sheltered housing will depend on whether you buy or rent and what your financial situation is. For more information, please see the section on paying for sheltered housing.

Where can I find out more about sheltered housing?

Further information about sheltered housing is available from Help the Aged and Age Concern. You can also search for schemes in your local area through Housingcare.