Sheltered Housing
What is sheltered housing?
Sheltered Housing is accommodation which has been designed with older people in mind. The Council's Sheltered properties are individual self contained bungalows and have either 1 or 2 bedrooms. They have varying levels of adaptations such as a level access shower, ramp for wheelchair users and some sheltered properties have no adaptations.
Some schemes have communal facilities located close to the accommodation i.e. a laundry, or a room for socialising, and have tended garden areas, etc. The location of the sheltered properties varies but they are situated all over the Rotherham Borough.
What help is provided in sheltered housing?
The properties have dedicated support staff, who will be able to help you. They will help to keep you independent and assist you through crisis periods. The properties are all covered by a community alarm system which gives 24 hour cover so you can call for help and deal with emergencies.
Who can apply for sheltered housing?
You will need to be over the age of 55 years, live within the Rotherham Borough and be on the Council's Housing Register. Applicants who live in local authority, housing association, private rented, and owner occupied accommodation will all be considered.
Who will be found eligible for sheltered accommodation?
People found eligible for Sheltered Accommodation may:
- Need support that cannot be provided by anyone else.
- Have a need for a community alarm service.
- Be unable to remain in their current accommodation due to health, aging or lack of support at their present property.
- Be living alone or live with a partner who is presently providing care but may not be able to continue.
- Be vulnerable due to various factors including, aging, general frailty, hearing and sight problems, mental health problem, isolation, at risk of being a victim of crime or has been a victim of crime, etc.
How can I apply for sheltered housing?
You need to complete a Housing Register Application form and a Medical Priority Assessment Form. You can also speak to your Social Worker or Occupational Therapist about referring you to the Assessment Team.
What happens after I have applied?
You will receive a letter from the Assessment Team to let you know they have received your application and an Assessment Officer will contact you in order to carry out an assessment of your needs. During the assessment you will be asked about your health and support needs and about the difficulties you have in your present property.
When your case has been finalised you will receive a letter informing you of the outcome. If you have been placed in the 'priority group' your case will be forwarded to a special panel who decide whether you are eligible for sheltered or other types of accommodation.
I have been informed that I am eligible for sheltered accommodation what happens now?
You will be matched to a Sheltered Property by the Assessment Team. When your turn is reached you will be contacted by the Neighbourhood Champion. He/She will contact you in order for you to view the property. The Support Service is part of the tenancy and it is not possible to 'opt-out'.
How much will the service cost?
In addition to your weekly rent you will be charged for:
- Cost of the sheltered support service.
- Communal facility charge, if available.
- Community alarm system.
You may be eligible for Housing Benefit to help with any costs.
For further information please contact the Sheltered Housing Warden Service on 01709 254860.