Elderly Homeowners

The information below is intended as a brief guide of options available to elderly home owners who are finding it difficult to remain in their own home. For more detailed information it is suggested that you contact one or more of the advice centres listed below.

Staying In Your Own Home

If you are finding it difficult to manage, but would like to stay in your present home, there are ways in which you can make life easier and safer.

You may like to think about investigating the possibility of having a community alarm to allow you to call for help 24 hours a day if you have an accident or are unwell. To enquire about this you should contact Poole Lifeline on 01202 733255.

You could also contact the Private Sector Team in Housing and Community Services on 01202 633426 to enquire about a grant, under the Safer Homes Scheme, which might enable you to have minor repairs carried out.  These may include such items as, handrails, repairs to carpets and floors, minor electrical repairs or smoke detectors.

Your local social services department may be able to assess you for home care, special equipment, meals or to go to a day centre.

If you are finding it expensive to remain in your own home you could contact your local JobCentrePlus 0845 600 4266 or Citizens Advice Bureau 01202 670716 to make sure you are claiming all the benefits to which you are entitled. Or check your entitlement on our online benefit calculator .

You may also wish to contact Age Concern 01202 523300 who will be able to give you advice on equity release schemes.

Sheltered Housing Schemes

Sheltered Housing is also known as retirement housing and is for those who are over the age of 60 years. There are many different types of sheltered housing schemes, both to buy and rent. Most of the schemes available to rent in Poole are provided by Poole Council or local housing associations. Allocation of these properties is usually through the Council's Housing Register. If you are unsure whether you are eligible for this type of housing please contact Housing and Community Services 01202 633805.

Some housing associations will take an application from you directly and may help you even where we may not.

Properties are also available to buy. To find out more about schemes available, locally and throughout the country, you should contact Age Concern 01202 523300 or the Elderly Accommodation Council 020 7820 1343. If you are worried about buying and selling a home both of these agencies will be able to give you assistance.

The price and types of property available to buy can vary considerably. There can also be restrictions due to age or medical circumstances. You will need to find this out before proceeding with a purchase.

Very Sheltered Accommodation

These schemes have been designed with the needs of frailer people in mind and include additional care services. We have one very sheltered scheme called Belmont Court. Referral to this scheme is through an application form available from Housing and Community Services.

To find out details of whether there are other schemes available privately in Poole or neighbouring boroughs, please contact Age Concern . Supporting evidence of housing need maybe required from your GP, social worker or other relevant professional.