New homes to be created for old and disabled people

The Department of Health is supporting new plans to create additional UK housing to help older and disabled people to maintain their independence for longer.

After the government asked local authorities to bid for a share of 300 million pounds to boost the supported housing market last year, funding has now been allocated to build 3,544 new homes, creating more than 1,000 new jobs in the process.

These properties will be designed to be as accessible as possible, with very few or no stairs, cupboards that are reachable for wheelchair users, adapted bathrooms and handrails to protect against falls.

It will mean that more people will be able to receive care and practical help in their own houses, rather than needing to go into hospitals or care homes.

Norman Lamb, care and support minister, said: "As we know, most people want to be independent in their own homes and as the population ages, more and more of us will need housing that supports us to do that."

Earlier this month, the government unveiled plans for a new fairer care funding system to help prevent anyone having to sell their home to pay for care during their lifetime.