Archive Website of the UK government

Sheltered housing

Sheltered housing properties have generally been built for older people and/or disabled people. The accommodation is usually self-contained flats or bungalows. They often have an alarm call system and a warden who visits regularly, or lives on the premises.

Housing association accommodation

Housing associations offer 'not for profit' social housing and normally have a variety of housing. Some of it is specially designed for people with physical disabilities. Housing associations may also be able to adapt their properties to meet their tenants' needs, including the need for sheltered housing.

• Housing association homes

Council homes

Your local council should have a stock of adapted properties to meet specific needs. Whenever possible the council tries to let these properties to people who need them after assessment from an occupational therapist.

Your local council may also be able to adapt council properties to meet the needs of tenants and their families.

Moving house

If your current property no longer suits your needs, you may decide to move to a more suitable home. If you privately rent or live in council housing, a local council housing officer may be able to offer you a transfer or re-housing.

You may be able to stay in your current home by making some adaptations or installing equipment.

• Your home, adaptations and equipment

Reporting problems with a council service

If you have a problem with a council service, you should first complain to the council.

If you're still not satisfied, the Local Government Ombudsman (LGO) may be able to help. The LGO usually only considers your complaint after it has been looked at under the local council's complaints procedure.

• Local Government Ombudsman - contact details

Useful contacts

• Organisations and charities - independent living