Sheltered and extra-care housing
These homes provide a safe, comfortable, and social environment while allowing residents to maintain their independence.
Sheltered housing
Sheltered housing is designed for older people (55+) or those with support needs, such as a learning disability. It allows residents to live independently with easy access to:
- safe and comfortable housing
- social and leisure opportunities
- support and emergency assistance
What does sheltered housing offer?
- self-contained accommodation usually one-bedroom or two-bedroom flats with a lounge, kitchen, and bathroom. Some schemes may have bedsits with shared facilities
- scheme manager or support service some properties have an on-site manager to help with day-to-day needs and ensure the smooth running of the building
- 24-hour emergency alarm service residents can call for help anytime
- communal spaces and social activities shared lounges, gardens, and community events for socialising
Who can apply?
You must usually be 55 or older (some exceptions for adults with disabilities).
Who provides sheltered housing in Lewisham?
Sheltered housing is managed by different providers, including:
- Lewisham Council - some sheltered housing is owned and managed by the Council
- housing associations and registered social landlords (RSLs) - other properties are managed by local housing associations
- private providers - private companies also offer sheltered housing options
Costs of sheltered housing
The total cost of sheltered housing includes:
- rent and household bills - the cost of your home
- housing service charge - covers maintenance of shared spaces
- support and emergency alarm fees - funds on-site support and emergency response services
Depending on your income and savings, you may qualify for housing benefit, income support, or council tax exemptions to help with costs.
Alternatives to sheltered housing
If you prefer to stay at home but need extra support, you may be able to access help at home instead. Visit our help at home page for more information.
How to apply for sheltered housing
If you live in social housing:
- Complete an online housing application.
- If you successfully bid on a property, a visit will be arranged to ensure it meets your needs.
If you own your home or rent privately:
- you can apply for social housing and bid on a sheltered property
- you can also search for private sheltered housing on the Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC) website
Extra care housing for over-55s and adults with disabilities
Extra care housing offers greater support than sheltered housing while still allowing residents to live independently.
What does extra care housing offer?
- self-contained flats - each home has a private kitchen, bathroom, and living space
- 24/7 on-site care staff - support available whenever needed
- shared lounges and social spaces - many schemes have cafes, restaurants and gardens
- tailored care plans - residents receive personalised support based on their needs.
Who can apply?
- must be 55+ (some schemes may accept younger adults with disabilities)
- must have had a social care assessment to determine eligibility
- must need at least some level of personal care to qualify
Extra care housing in Lewisham
Lewisham has seven extra care housing sites, with a mix of:
- one-bedroom and two-bedroom flats
- wheelchair-accessible properties
- communal gardens and social spaces
Two additional extra care housing schemes are currently being developed.
Costs of extra care housing
The cost of extra care housing includes:
- rent and household bills - just like a regular home
- housing service charge - covers maintenance of communal areas
- support and emergency alarm fees - helps fund on-site staff and emergency call systems
- care costs - you may pay extra for personal care services
Help with costs
A financial assessment will determine how much you need to pay. You may qualify for:
- housing benefit or income support
- exemption from council tax
How to apply for extra care housing
Complete an adult social care self-assessment to check if you qualify.
If you're eligible, the Council will discuss your needs and available options.
Need more information?
If you’re unsure about which option is right for you, speak to our team to explore your choices.