Supported and older person’s housing development survey: Our key findings

Supported housing helps more than half a million people to live independently in their communities. It provides a vital service to the people in our society who need the most support, from survivors of domestic abuse to young people leaving care. 

We surveyed our members at the end of 2023 to understand their plans for developing and regenerating supported or older person’s homes, and some of the key barriers they face.  

This survey is a snapshot insight into respondents’ plans and challenges, looking at homes for older people, supported housing for working-age people with support needs, and Housing First for people at risk of homelessness.  

Earlier this month, we released new research on the crisis facing supported housing services at risk of closure, revealing that nearly 1 in 3 providers were forced to close supported housing services over the past year. In the run up to the general election, it’s vital we understand the barriers to developing and regenerating supported and older person’s housing - so we can ask the next government for a sustainable plan for supported housing. 

What do we need from the next government to break down these barriers? 

NHF research with Altair Ltd. shows we will need over 167,000 more supported homes by 2040. To make this happen, we’re asking the next government to:  

• Commit to at least 167,000 more supported homes by 2040.  
• Ringfence housing-related support funding, committing to £1.6bn initially, rising to up to £3.4bn a year by 2040.  
• Recommit to the £300m Housing Transformation Fund. This will ensure supported housing is part of a strategic vision, alongside local plans, to meet housing need. 
• Provide improved, flexible revenue and grant funding so we can meet the target for 10% of the Affordable Homes Programme and deliver more supported and older person’s homes.  
• Make every decision about care a decision about housing.