Independent living for older residents
Independent Living (also known as sheltered housing) enables residents to remain in their own homes for long as possible. Most of the properties are one-bed, and there are some studios and a few two-bed flats.
Residents have a Secure Tenancy, like any other Council tenant, with similar rights and responsibilities, however, they do not have the Right to Buy.
Lewisham Council owns and manages 18 Independent Living schemes housing around 500 residents. They are located across the borough:
- SE4
- SE6 x3
- SE8
- SE12 x2
- SE13
- SE14 x2
- SE15
- SE23 x3
- SE26 x4
What are the benefits of Independent Living schemes?
- Independent Living residents have access to a 24-hour call system for use in case of an emergency or assistance
- Independent Living schemes are fitted with extra security
- Independent Living Housing Officers manage the schemes and can be contacted from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday
Independent Living does not:
- provide care or support facilities such as 24/7 on-site staff or personal carers
- accommodate families – only single people or couples can live in the flats
What does the Independent Living Housing Officer do?
- as well as helping you with tenancy issues such as paying your rent, Independent Living Housing Officers (ILHO) are also responsible for the day-to-day management of the scheme. This includes the security, fire safety, maintenance and repair of communal areas
- they can also provide information about housing, health, support and accessing care services or signpost you to expert services, for example, the Falls Clinic
- the ILHO will hold regular resident meetings, with some standard rolling agenda items but also items chosen by you, at times agreed with you
- the ILHO will work closely with vulnerable residents to sustain their tenancies, such as carrying out increased welfare checks for someone coming out of hospital
Facilities and activities within Independent Living schemes
Flats in independent living schemes are designed to meet the needs of older people. Some of the main features are level access, lifts, wide corridors and good lighting. There is central heating to individual flats and all communal areas. Every scheme has a laundry room with washing and drying machines, and a communal lounge and garden.
There are social activities for residents who are interested, such as:
- coffee mornings
- arts and crafts sessions
- fish and chip suppers
- gentle exercise classes
As a resident you can also set up your own social activities and join a Tenants and Residents Association where there is one in place to help influence your housing services. We also have an Independent Living Resident Forum which meets three times a year to review and recommend service improvements.
Rent and service charge
Independent Living residents pay a monthly service charge on top of their rent which is for:
- the enhanced housing management service provided by the Independent Living Housing Officer
- looking after the shared areas in and around the building which includes cleaning, gardening and repairs
- a 24hr emergency alarm call system
Depending on your income and savings you may be able to receive housing benefit or income support and pay reduced council tax. We'll advise you about this when you join the housing register.
Guest rooms
Many of our schemes have guest rooms available for relatives or friends to stay overnight. This could be useful if you become ill and need to be cared for by a family member or have family or friends who live outside the area.
There's a charge for renting a guest room. To book, speak to your Independent Living Housing Officer, email independentliving@lewisham.gov.uk or use the online form.
Who can apply for Independent Living?
Our Independent Living schemes are designed for people over 60. If you or your partner are over 60 and are Lewisham residents you may be eligible. If you would like to visit an Independent Living scheme you can contact us on 0800 028 2028 or email independentliving@lewisham.gov.uk to arrange a suitable date and time.
How do I apply?
To apply for Independent Living, you will need to be on the housing register.