Sheltered Accommodation Age Change Consultation

Closed 29 Jul 2024

Opened 16 Jul 2024

Contact

Lucy Spence

0800 716 987

tenantpartnership@winchester.gov.uk

Feedback updated 18 Mar 2025

We asked

For comments on proposals "To amend the Council lettings policy in respect of Sheltered Accommodation"

You said

1,064 Winchester Hampshire Home Choice applicants were sent the questionnaire regarding reducing the minimum age requirement from 60 to 55, with 162 of those applicants responding.

78% of respondants strongly agreed or agreed with the proposal.

In addition to this, two focus groups were held in different sheltered housing schemes, with representation of people from 4 different schemes. 

91% of these focus groups strongly agreed or agreed with the proposal.

We did

Amended WCC’s allocation policy - approved at Cabinet in November 2024: 

"To amend the Council’ lettings policy in respect of Sheltered Accommodation- to allow 55-59yr olds to bid on WCC’s sheltered accommodation."

Overview

In order to make the best use of stock and reduce homelessness, Winchester City Council are considering reducing the minimum age at which it lets Sheltered Accommodation.

Winchester City Council currently only lets Sheltered Accommodation to households where the main applicant is 60 years old. The Hampshire Home Choice (HHC) framework states sheltered accommodation can be allocated to households who are 55yrs+. This is in line with other registered providers of housing.  

Areas

  • All Areas

Audiences

  • Council Tenants

Interests

  • Social Housing