About sheltered housing

Sheltered housing usually consist of modern one and two bedroom self-contained flats for older residents aged 55 years or over. These properties are available for rent from Wandsworth Council and are designed to help maintain independence in friendly,  supportive and secure communities, known as sheltered housing schemes.

We have 26 sheltered housing schemes in the borough. These schemes have the added security of a fire alarm system, warden alarm service and a sheltered housing officer for help and support.

The properties are unfurnished. You will have access to communal facilities such as a communal lounge and laundry. Most schemes are set in attractive gardens close to shops and local amenities. Some flats have been specially designed to meet the needs of older people for example, plug points are higher, doors are wider and some flats have been specially adapted for wheelchair access or people with mobility problems.

On this page

Who is Sheltered housing for?

Sheltered housing is a popular option for people who may:

  • Want to move to a smaller property that is easier to maintain
  • Feel safer in a community scheme setting
  • Want to make new friends
  • Want that bit of extra support

Independence planning

Sheltered housing offers you the chance to live in a community environment with facilities that suit your needs, but still keep your own front door and privacy. Each new resident moving into sheltered housing has an independence plan. This is a confidential agreement between you and your sheltered housing officer. It includes emergency contact details, contact agreement and any special needs you have like a mobility difficulty or pets and their care. This helps the your sheltered housing officer support you in the best way possible.

What we offer in Sheltered housing?

Encouraging independent and healthy lifestyles. Providing a secure environment with peace of mind. To provide support as necessary enabling residents to remain in their home for as long as possible. Ensuring staff are well trained Allowing choice in the range of support offered.

Sheltered housing officers and available support

Each sheltered scheme has an experienced sheltered housing officer from Monday to Friday. Generally, officers are responsible for the management and security of the building, as well as the safety and welfare of the residents. Sheltered housing officers are specialists in providing housing related support tasks such as: 

  • Support to maintain a tenancy
  • Help to access benefits
  • Help with budgeting
  • Help to access health or home care services
  • Help to access local activities
  • Help to access education, training or work
  • Signpost to life skill services
  • Helping people to feel safe and secure in their home

Social engagement

Sheltered housing officers are experienced in promoting social inclusion and reducing isolation. They can offer a range of social activities including exercise classes and out door activities.  

Out of hours support service

The Emergency response officers (pictured above) provide an out of hours support service when the sheltered housing officer is not on duty. They provide a 24-hour a day, 365 days a year responsive service. In the event of an emergency they will respond in accordance to the nature of the call. They are first aid trained and will contact your relatives, doctors, emergency services or other professional help, if required.

Security and alarm facilities

Security is very important to us and our schemes offer a range of security features which includes a 24 –hour alarm system, door entry systems, CCTV (security cameras) and fire safety systems.

Pets

We recognise the importance of having a pet for companionship and promoting health and well being through responsible pet ownership. We will also discuss alternative care arrangements for your pet should the need arise in the future.

Repairs

Sheltered housing offers the support from a sheltered housing officer who can support you to report repairs if required. If you want to report your own repairs you can do that by contacting the estate manager directly or you can go online and Report and track repairs on the Wandsworth Council webpage.

Choosing where to live

We will try to find you a flat in your preferred area, but its better not to limit yourself to one part of the borough. You may already be familiar with some of the schemes, but it’s a good idea to find out about other schemes and what’s on offer. The more areas that you are prepared to consider, the sooner we will be able to rehouse you. All Wandsworth Council’s sheltered housing schemes are listed in this brochure.

Sheltered housing cost

As a resident in council sheltered housing you will pay a weekly rent. Financial assistance such as housing benefit is available for people on low incomes. You can discuss this when you apply for sheltered housing.

Incentive payments

If you are a council resident wanting to downsize from a large property into sheltered housing with less bedrooms, you may be entitled to a cash payment. Speak to the Housing options team on 020 8871 6161 for advice and further information.

Paying your rent

We operate a swipe card rent payment system. You can pay using the swipe card at any PayPoint outlet or post office. You also have the option to pay by direct debit, standing order telephone payment and pay online

Home insurance

We advise you to take out contents insurance to cover furniture, carpets and personal possessions against loss, theft, fire, flood and other damage as the council’s insures the building and the fixtures and fittings.

Apply for sheltered housing

View how to apply for sheltered housing in Wandsworth.

Contact

For more information or to request a copy of our brochure contact Supported housing services by:

Up to Sheltered housing

Updated: 06/08/2024