Agenda item

This report provides an overview of the types of housing available to Over 55-year-olds in Hammersmith and Fulham.

Richard Shwe and Aaron Cahill (Housing Policy Strategy Lead) introduced the report which provided an overview of the types of housing available to residents aged 55 and over in Hammersmith and Fulham. It included background information and analysis of national, regional, and local policy and strategy. The report concluded with a SWOT analysis, informed by the research undertaken on housing for over-55s in Hammersmith and Fulham. This analysis highlighted the positive provision of housing for older residents by the Council, the opportunities to shift perceptions of this housing type, and the challenges relating to supply. Discussions with Members regarding the content of the report and the accompanying SWOT analysis were intended to inform the Council’s Older People’s Housing Strategy for 2026–2031.

Councillor Sally Taylor referred to discussions around housing for residents aged 55 and over, noting that the life expectancy in the area was far higher.

Councillor Adronie Alford commented that the term "sheltered housing" gave the wrong impression and suggested that it should be presented in a way that made older people feel positively about moving there. She raised concerns about the suitability of certain sites and identified locations that could potentially be redeveloped.

It was noted that sheltered schemes had previously been outlined in a printed booklet, and Councillor Adronie Alford recommended that a hard copy should still be provided.

Councillor Adronie Alford asked about the relationship with housing associations, particularly in relation to older residents, and highlighted the lack of options for those wishing to downsize into smaller accommodation.

Councillor Frances Umeh emphasised that rebranding work was required to change both the name and the perception of sheltered housing. She mentioned the role of the sheltered housing forum group in helping to improve services, particularly in relation to repairs. It was noted that while information was available online, the booklet had received useful feedback and remained a valuable resource. Partnership working with housing associations was also discussed. Richard Shwe (Director – Housing) acknowledged that further work was needed with housing associations and confirmed that this would be addressed over the next six months.

Councillor Adronie Alford observed that residents often preferred to remain with their existing housing associations and that transitions to other types of housing were not always well supported. Councillor Frances Umeh noted this point.

Councillor Laura Janes commented on the importance of terminology and suggested that the concept of "autonomy", commonly used in health contexts, should be incorporated into the language used. Richard Shwe agreed that this was a good idea and confirmed that it would be considered. It was emphasised that the strategy should not be left unimplemented and that delivery must be ensured.

Councillor Sally Taylor requested that vacancy rates for residents aged 55 and over be broken down for further analysis. Aaron Cahill (Housing Policy Strategy Lead) confirmed that a detailed analysis would be provided.

Councillor Laura Janes stated that a range of housing options was important and that support for people to remain in their own homes should be clearly outlined. Richard Shwe reported that work was ongoing with colleagues in Public Health and Adult Social Care, and that from April 2025, the service would be responsible for adaptations. He added that when a unit had been made accessible, consideration should be given to allowing other disabled residents to use it, rather than removing adaptations unnecessarily.

Councillor Adronie Alford raised concerns about delays in adapting units and noted that contractors often lacked understanding of how adaptations should be carried out. Richard Shwe responded that whole life cycle costs needed to be considered, taking into account both the project and the resident’s needs. He acknowledged that services sometimes implemented what they believed to be appropriate, which might not align with residents’ actual requirements.

Councillor Sally Taylor asked whether close working relationships existed with occupational therapy teams. Councillor Frances Umeh confirmed that the service did work with relevant experts.

Richard Shwe stated that more in depth data would be brought back for review in six months’ time.