Retirement villages are also known as 'extra care housing'. They provide quality, modern accommodation for people over 55.
We are working with partners to build these in the city. They are spacious apartments in a community setting, with facilities on-site and are close to transport links.
People living in retirement villages have their own one or two-bedroom self-contained flat, with a bedroom, lounge, kitchen and bathroom with level and en suite access, full central heating, and an emergency alarm link. There are flats suitable for people who use a wheelchair and lifts to get to upper floors.
They also have:
- a communal lounge
- catering facilities
- launderette
- access to a local shop
- landscaped gardens
- guest suite
- cleaning service
- hair and beauty salon
- 24-hour support
- security with CCTV and intercoms
- social events and activities for those who wish to take part.
You can furnish your flats to your own tastes. All tenants have a tenancy agreement and pay rent to the housing association that runs the schemes.
The housing is for people with a range of care needs, from those who need little or no support to those who need regular support. It means you will continue to have your own space and privacy but can have support and companionship if you wish.
The flats are designed to accommodate couples or partners as long as at least one person meets the eligibility criteria and this is considered as the most effective way of meeting your needs.
The amount of care provided will vary from person to person and will change over time for individuals (such as during a period of illness). How much you pay depends on your individual financial circumstances and how much you can afford to pay. For most people it will be cheaper than residential care, and it will leave you with a larger weekly income and a more independent lifestyle.
The charges cover additional benefits/services which you would have to arrange or pay for separately elsewhere if you were living in your own individual property.
Rent is higher than normal rent charges but many services and facilities are included in the basic rent. Housing benefit may be available to cover some or all of the rent depending on your personal circumstances.
Some elements of these services may not be covered by housing benefit and all tenants must pay this to the housing association from their own income.