What is extra care?
The term extra care housing is used to describe developments that comprise of self-contained homes with design features and support services available to enable self-care and independent living.
Extra care housing is designed to enable people to remain independent for as long as possible. It can offer many different levels of support which can be altered as your needs change. It is suitable for people whose disabilities, frailty or health needs mean standard housing is unsuitable. It is often also referred to as very sheltered housing or assisted living. Here in North Yorkshire we have a number of extra care housing schemes across the county.
Features of extra care housing
The features of extra care housing in North Yorkshire are:
- you have your own home, with your own front door, kitchen, bathroom, lounge and one or two bedrooms
- you will have access to care and support 24 hours a day, seven days a week and with housing management staff available during office hours
- properties are usually available to: rent, buy or for shared ownership
- a safe and secure living environment
- a scheme manager
- communal facilities such as a lounge, restaurant, shop, hair and beauty salon, library and space for other social activities
- a chance to be involved in many social activities and learning opportunities
- the opportunity to remain part of the local community
Couples can move in together and the properties are designed with easy access to the building for people with mobility problems or disabilities.
Who can live in extra care housing?
You can live in extra care housing if:
- you are over the age of 55
- you are a younger adult with a care and/or support need
- you are a couple, with one or both of you having a care or support need
Extra care housing is particularly good for people who want to live in a home of their own, but need some support or help with their daily routine.
Why you should consider extra care housing:
- you may have health problems
- you are struggling with looking after your home or garden
- you are considering residential care
- you require regular help and support to help you live in your own home
- you think you will need more support in the future
Extra care housing is North Yorkshire Council’s recommended alternative to residential care.
What are the benefits of choosing extra care housing?
- you are living in your own home, which you can buy or rent
- you maintain your independence and you can come and go as you please
- you can have people come and stay with you, either in your own home, or in the guest suite that each scheme has
- you are in control of your finances
- if you buy your home you may have remaining inheritance to pass on to your family
- you can take your pet with you in agreement with the housing provider
- there is a wide range of communal facilities
- the support you receive will help maintain your independence
- every property can be fitted with assistive technology to help give you security and peace of mind
How much does it cost to live in extra care housing?
There are several elements to the costs of extra care housing:
- the cost of buying or renting an apartment
- the service charge associated with your home
- your care and support costs
- day to day living costs which will include the cost of electricity, council tax, telephone and groceries
- Background Support Charge (Flexicare) some of which may be eligible for housing benefit depending on your financial circumstances. The amount you pay will vary depending upon your own financial situation; the level of income you have every month, your savings and the value of any property you may
own. You may have to pay for all the costs or you may be entitled to benefits to meet some or all of the costs. Staff will be able to give advice on any help you may be entitled to. Rents and service charges in extra care housing can be covered in part or whole by Housing Benefit, subject to an individual Welfare Benefits Assessment. The service charges cover the maintenance of communal property and gardens.
Further information
- North Yorkshire Council's extra care housing schemes
- Elderly Accommodation Counsel - provides free advice and information on all aspects of housing, care and support