Under-occupation - should people be expected to leave their homes?

 

Join our live discussion Monday 31st October 12pm - 2pm at http://www.guardian.co.uk/housing-network

Further to our response to the recently published 'Hoarding of Housing Report' FirstStop is leading an online discussion with the Guardian on under occupation and whether or not people should be expected to leave their homes. Taking part from FirstStop will be Director Daniel Pearson and Moving Home Service partner - Charmian Boyd from Seamless Relocation. Log on between 12pm - 2pm to follow the discussion or, if you can't join us then you'll still be able to access the discussion on the website after the event.



FirstStop's Response to Hoarding of Housing Report from the Intergenerational Foundation

Help is already at hand for older people considering their housing options, including downsizing, but not enough of them are aware the help is out there and how to access it.

Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC) has been helping older people explore their housing options for over 25 years yet only a small proportion of the population are aware of its existence

Whether with an active older person or more vulnerable and isolated, exploring the options open to each individual can be time consuming and complex to navigate. Where do I start? Who do I talk to? What questions should I ask? What are the options? Which would be best for me? Many older people are either not aware of the answers or put off by the questions and just choose to deal with it later or not at all.

Daniel Pearson, Director of EAC’s advice service FirstStop says “It’s about so much more than just financial incentives to move. The issue for many older people is finding the help and support they need to downsize. For many it’s not an option they can take on alone, some need help physically, emotionally and practically. Also, for many, there is a shortage of suitable accommodation locally to move to. Whatever their circumstances, having someone they can talk to can make it easier to make a decision. ”

FirstStop is working hard to improve older people’s access to the advice and information they need. As well as their own Advice team and website FirstStop are currently part funding a number of local housing options projects around the country to deliver a face to face service. They are also delivering a programme of training and presentations to older people’s groups, at local events and if requested, directly to employees.

John Galvin, Chief Executive of EAC comments “Housing options for older people can include:

- Moving to a property that better suits their needs.

- Living with family.

- Moving to some form of retirement housing such as a retirement village, sheltered housing or extra care housing.

- Repairing or adapting their home to make it more suitable

- Or possibly sharing their home with a younger person through a ‘Homeshare’ arrangement.

The key is in making it easy for people to access this information and advice and to offer it in a way that encourages take-up and empowers people.”

EAC and FirstStop are also currently undertaking research into the economic value of downsizing on behalf of the Department for Communities and Local Government. This is due for publication in December

FirstStop’s services can be accessed via one phone number 0800 377 70 70 and one website www.firststopadvice.org.uk.