A series of new publications for residents and landlords of sheltered housing aims to celebrate schemes whose residents say they work well, ensure that all residents are consulted whenever changes are planned in their schemes, and provide them with clear information about how to complain effectively if ever they feel badly done by.
The publications have been produced by an industry working group set up in response to unease about the pace of change in sheltered housing. Of particular concern to some residents has been the move away from resident scheme 'wardens' in favour of non-resident or visiting staff. There are 4 publications in all:
1.
“More than just a few kind words!” - a good practice guide for housing providers and local authorities to reshaping resident support services in sheltered housing schemes, produced by the National Housing Federation (NHF)
2.
Effective Resident Involvement and Consultation in Sheltered Housing - a good practice guide for housing providers and local authorities, produced by the Centre for Housing and Support (CHS)
3.
A Guide to Making Complaints for Sheltered Housing Residents - produced by the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH)
4.
EAC Housing for Older People Awards 2010 - a report on the first EAC Awards competition, in which only sheltered housing residents are allowed to make nominations. The report tells the story of the Awards to date, and features this year's 32 winners.