1.5million older people homeless by 2020

Shocking research carried out by ERoSH reveals that 1.5 million older people could be without adequate housing by 2020 if the Government fails to address the housing shortage in Britain.

With one of the largest ageing populations in Europe, it is estimated that the number of people over retirement age in Britain will rise to approximately 22 million by 2020 which, according to ERoSH, could result in a huge housing deficit.

In line with this rate of demographic change, the charitable organisation is launching a new campaign entitled 'I lead a sheltered life' designed to raise awareness of the role of sheltered housing in the UK and highlight the real need for suitable accommodation for the future generations of older people.

Research conducted by ERoSH amongst 1,000 people UK wide reveals that when the time comes when you need a less burdensome style of living, two thirds of the British public would choose sheltered housing over any other form of housing because of the security, support and independence it allows.

Michele Hollywood, ERoSH chair, explains: "With up to 90% of the over 60s generation spending most of the time at home, it is widely acknowledged that good quality housing, care and support services make a huge difference to many older people's lives.

"While it is well documented that the age balance of the UK is fast moving, there has been inadequate attention to the housing needs of this ageing population. We'll shortly have more people aged over 55 than under 16 and the current housing levels are not sustainable for the future. Unless the need for more appropriate housing is addressed promptly, older people will most certainly suffer the consequences."

One tenant that is testament of the benefits that sheltered housing can bring is Patricia Eley who says: "I decided to move into sheltered housing when I realised that I needed support but still wanted to remain independent. Having lived with no serious security in a caravan in a remote area of Devon, my new flat is a refreshing change and I find comfort in the knowledge that once my flat is locked, it cannot be entered except by the scheme manager in the event of an emergency.

"With local amenities conveniently close by, it would be difficult to find anywhere better to live and be happier than I am now. With the River Ouse at the end of our garden, since living at the scheme, I have even taken up kayaking! There is plenty of encouragement to be involved in all kinds of activities and I have excellent friends and neighbours here. I love the fact that I'm able to be totally independent yet feel really secure."

Over three quarters of a million people now live in sheltered housing in the UK and despite a general assumption that older people will stay put in their own homes as they age, with pension deficits looming and a rising tide of older people requiring support services, ERoSH warns this figure is set to rise.

Continues Michele: "Our research reveals that there is a real demand for sheltered housing but despite this, the issue is never really made a priority. The Government's National Strategy for Housing in an Ageing Society sets out a vision where all older people will have housing that supports them to live happy, healthy, active and independent lives, yet it seems that there is still no real backing for sheltered housing which facilitates the achievement of this vision.

"Funding is available for local authorities to invest in sheltered housing but currently much of this is ring fenced via a postcode lottery approach as opposed to being strategically addressed."

ERoSH is launching a free advice guide to equip people with more information about sheltered housing in order for them to make a more informed choice about future housing needs. A freephone number and dedicated website has also been set up to offer guidance and point people in the right direction of their local providers.

Concludes Michele: "There is little doubt that the ageing population represents an enormous challenge to society and in order for the Government's vision to become a reality, a new approach needs be adopted, all available resources need to be coordinated strategically and a real commitment needs to be made through this critical period of change leading to 2020."

Sheltered housing is for older people who value their independence, relish a community spirit and live life to the full. For more information call 0800 95 44 207 or visit www.leadashelteredlife.co.uk