Anti-Social Behaviour in Independent Living
Anti-social behaviour (ASB) can have a significant impact on both individuals and communities, as well as on housing providers for whom the costs can be considerable. ASB impacts negatively on health, safety, well-being and quality of life regardless of age but can cause older and/or vulnerable people particular anxiety or distress.
Bereavement and End of Life Support
The impact of the loss of a resident on scheme staff and other residents cannot be underestimated especially if a death is unexpected. Whilst scheme managers do not have the same direct role as other voluntary/statutory agencies in providing bereavement support or supporting an individual at the end of life, they play a key role in signposting residents to specialist support and may provide ‘informal’ support.
Challenging Behaviour in Independent Living Settings
Independent living providers have experienced an increase in residents with complex needs presenting challenges for providers, scheme staff and other residents.
Choosing to Move: Supporting Residents
Independent living/sheltered and retirement housing schemes are aimed at individuals who live independently but with a bit of support when needed. But what happens when accommodation and/or services no longer meet an individual’s needs and they may need to consider moving to alternative accommodation which caters for a higher level of need or more complex needs? This resource considers how best to support residents to choose to move.
Communal Lounges
Communal lounges are a key feature of independent living schemes and are used for resident meetings as well as a wide variety of social activities. They are also sometimes used by staff for meetings or training, consultation, and engagement activities as well as by external providers to delivery information sessions delivered such as keep fit or healthy eating.
Damp and Mould
Living with damp and mould significantly impacts anyone’s health and wellbeing, and particularly on vulnerable, older people. In 2025, Awaab’s Law strengthened, in England, housing providers’ responsibilities for addressing damp and mould and in Wales a new Welsh Housing Quality Standard was introduced with mandatory timescales for investigating and remedying hazards including damp and mould.
Digital Engagement and Older People
The Covid-19 pandemic encouraged independent living providers to review their digital engagement with residents. Many recognised the need to make changes around how residents interact with digital platforms and the support they need to engage.
