Cabinet asked to approve consultation re most vulnerable having access to right accommodation

Shropshire Council’s Cabinet will be asked to approve an eight-week consultation on a draft strategy that will address the housing needs of older people, people with disabilities, and those with other diverse needs, in Shropshire.

The Draft Independent Living and Specialist Accommodation Strategy will be discussed by Cabinet on Wednesday 21 February 2024 at 10.30am and focuses on addressing the housing needs of vulnerable populations in Shropshire, emphasising supported independent and specialist accommodation.

The strategy sets out a clear vision to enable older, vulnerable and people with disabilities to lead independent lives in housing suitable to their needs.

The Draft Independent Living and Specialist Accommodation Strategy is based on the principle of supporting people to remain independent within their own homes and communities for as long as possible, and providing choice and control over their living environments. The strategy identifies several priorities including:-

• addressing diverse housing needs
• providing home improvement and assistance
• tackling fuel poverty
• delivering accessible and adaptable housing
• providing specialist accommodation
• preventing homelessness.

Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for housing and assets, said:-

“Shropshire Council is committed to promoting independence, empowering individuals with the freedom to make choices, and maintaining control over their living environments.

“Our Draft Independent Living and Specialist Accommodation Strategy outlines how we will ensure that people have appropriate homes that meet their needs and promote their independence and wellbeing.

“We understand that not everyone’s housing needs are the same and, therefore, we want to providing a range of housing solutions to cater to the diverse requirements of our residents. Our ultimate goal is to enhance living conditions and support for vulnerable individuals across Shropshire.

“We first want to seek views from our communities and our partners to ensure our strategy’s vision, principles and objectives align with the needs and views of the communities we want to support, and with those organisations we work with.”

The Draft Independent Living and Specialist Accommodation Strategy will be discussed by Cabinet for final approval, following feedback from the eight-week consultation. Feedback will help shape the final version of the strategy, and inform the council’s future actions and decisions on housing for vulnerable people.