Agenda item

That the Committee notes the outcomes of the review and next steps, and supports the principle of sheltered accommodation being known as ‘sheltered and supported accommodation’ to reflect the customer group it serves.

The Housing Asset Manager presented a report on the outcome of the review of sheltered accommodation across the county, comprising a total of 2,637 properties. The review was undertaken as there was a perception that the Council had a challenge in letting sheltered accommodation and that vacancy rates were a concern.

Amongst the findings, it was noted that empty property rent loss was not an issue and was broadly in line with general needs housing.  Many sheltered housing schemes were in high demand, and the main reasons for ending tenancies were because of death or tenants moving to residential care facilities.  Bedsitters were less popular and some schemes in rural areas could be more difficult to let.  Finally there were a small number of schemes where access could be a challenge for those with mobility issues.  These could be addressed through scheme investment plans.

On occasion, sheltered housing was let to applicants with support needs and physical disabilities who were under the age designation for sheltered housing as it was the most appropriate accommodation available to meet their needs.  Changing the descriptor of sheltered housing to ‘sheltered and supported’ accommodation would accurately reflect this practice.

Councillor Shotton spoke in support of the recommendations and commended the refurbishment of the Glan-y-Morfa scheme in Connah’s Quay.

The Chief Officer (Community & Enterprise) said that the report demonstrated high demand for accommodation as well as options for improvement, for example, to address accessibility issues and increase take-up of bedsits and properties in remote areas.

Councillor Attridge spoke about options to encourage tenancies in bedsits and the potential for some accommodation to be re-classified to meet demand of other customer groups.

Councillor Johnson asked if it was possible for elderly residents awaiting wet room installations to be given access to alternative bathing facilities.  The Chief Officer said that cases should be referred to officers and was aware of arrangements with some extra care schemes.  She advised that Council tenants were able to apply for an Occupational Health assessment to see if they qualified for a Disabled Facilities Grant.

As identified in the report, Councillor Dolphin referred to the lack of local facilities for those living in sheltered accommodation in more remote areas.  She also stressed the need for properties adapted to a high-standard for disabled tenants to be retained for that purpose.  On issues arising from problem tenants, Councillor Attridge spoke about the approach to tackling this and the aim to achieve the right mix of individuals with different needs within a scheme.

In response to comments from Councillor Shotton, the Chief Officer was aware of ideas being worked up to establish the potential for a mobile shopping service to remote communities and would seek an update.

Councillor Cox spoke about positive engagement by elected Members in helping residents to deal with issues such as loneliness.  The Chief Officer said that the contribution of wardens was important in encouraging tenants to involve themselves in their local communities.

Councillor Hughes asked about the percentage of accommodation refused on the basis of lack of local transport services.  The Senior Sheltered Housing Officer advised that the main reason for refusal was accommodation type.  Councillor Attridge suggested that the Committee receive feedback on actions arising from the review after a 12 month period.  The Chief Officer agreed that this would involve a detailed analysis of the waiting list and reasons for refusal.

RESOLVED:

That the Committee notes the outcomes of the review and next steps, and supports the principle of sheltered accommodation being known as ‘sheltered and supported accommodation’ to reflect the customer group it serves.