Accommodation Strategy
What do people need from their accommodation as they get older in Wiltshire?
About the Project
Wiltshire Council approached Voice It, Hear It to carry out an engagement project to support with the development of its 2024-2029 Accommodation Strategy.
The aim of the project was to find out what people aged over 55 years have to say about remaining independent within their own home and how services can be designed to be comfortable if older residents are unable to stay in their current home. Findings from the engagement project will be used to develop the strategy and inform future housing needs for older people who live in Wiltshire.
Key Highlights
Future Housing Needs
Residents in Wiltshire are willing to proactively consider their future housing needs, especially in relation to health, mobility and ageing. The majority of older residents want to stay in their own home for as long as possible but may need adaptations and practical support to achieve this.
Finding Information About Housing
Improvements could be made to the availability of information about housing choices and options locally, as well as ensuring information is accessible to all and easy to understand. Older residents want equitable access to support and housing options regardless of their personal circumstances.
Planning for Future Housing Needs
Over half of residents suggested their housing needs were likely to change in future and, whilst most people wish to stay in their own home, over a third would consider downsizing. There was a significant preference for private bungalows with a small garden. The provision of bungalows is felt to be insufficient locally for both private owners, social housing tenants and retirement villages.
Living an Independent Life
Perception of independence in older age was strongly tied to remaining independent for as long as possible at home. In order to live an independent life, older residents may need help with adaptations to their current home, care and support (including personal care), help with small tasks in the home or garden and staying connected to facilities and the wider community.
Living in a Care Home
Living in a care home is the least desirable option for older residents in Wiltshire. A private room with an en-suite bathroom is felt to be essential, along with outdoor space, entertainment, high-quality meals and opportunities to socialise. Care home residents want to stay active and independent with frequent visits from family and friends. Care home residents would like to continue making choices for themselves.
Rural Residents
Almost half of respondents said they live in a rural area and residents in rural areas are likely to need a lot of practical support to remain in their own home as they get older. Almost a quarter of rural residents can only access essential services with help from others and some said they cannot access essential services at all. There is likely to be significant overlap between the theme of transport and access to facilities, health care and social activities for older rural residents.
Suggested Approaches
A number of suggested approaches are presented including:
- Help with home adaptations
- Increased provision of bungalows
- Centralised access to housing information
- A personalised approach to housing options for all older residents.
Factors include familiar, fair, feelings, family, friends, features, floors, facilities and fields (green space)
Accommodation Strategy Report
As part of the project Voice It, Hear It created an online survey which was shared amongst partner networks.
Findings from the survey are presented in the report which you can download using the ‘download report’ button.
For questions about the report, please email: voice@communityfirst.org.uk
“Possibly downsize, but I would be keen to remain in my local area to maintain my contacts and friends. I get on well with my neighbours and this is important for me. I love gardening so a garden is essential.”
“Having a shower fitted would be a big help as getting in and out of the bath is difficult.”
Thank you to everyone who took part in our consultation and engagement around this topic. We are especially grateful to those with lived experience who shared their thoughts, concerns, and reflections so openly – your voices have been vital in shaping this work. We have now asked Wiltshire Council to share with us the actions they are taking in response to the feedback received. Once again, thank you to everyone who gave their time and energy to contribute – whether sharing frustrations, highlighting what’s working well, or helping us think about future improvements and planning.
Feedback and Next Steps
You Said, We Did
Following the completion of a Voice It, Hear It engagement project. Wiltshire Council will share a project update outlining how the feedback from this project has been considered and acted on. This update will usually follow within six months.
Funded by:
