Plans for Specialist Homes to Benefit Vulnerable Residents in Hackney
In an effort to address the needs of older residents and those living with disabilities or illnesses in Hackney, the local council has unveiled plans to develop hundreds of “specialist” homes. These plans, which aim to provide residential and supported living accommodation over the next decade, have received strong support from councillors who are eager to act quickly in response to rising demand for social care services.
Adult social care covers a wide range of activities designed to help individuals live independently and maintain their well-being and safety. This can include providing aids and adaptations for people’s homes to ensure they can access the support they need. However, as the demand for social care services continues to increase, Hackney Council recognized the need to expand and improve its housing options for vulnerable residents.
According to a review conducted by consultancy firm Campbell Tickell, the Town Hall has identified the need for 532 “specialist” upgraded homes or new builds to meet the growing demand for social care services in the area. This review was carefully examined by the Health in Hackney scrutiny committee, which highlighted the importance of finding alternative solutions to prevent residents from being forced to leave Hackney due to a lack of suitable social care facilities.
Challenges and Solutions in Providing Specialised Living Facilities
Helen Woodland, the council’s group director for adults, health, and integration, emphasized the complexity of the work involved in developing specialised living facilities for older people. These facilities, also known as ‘housing with care sites’ or ‘extra care’, are not purpose-built and may not always be located in the communities where residents want to live. Woodland stressed the importance of developing alternative forms of supported accommodation to provide care closer to home and within the communities where individuals are coming from.
One of the key challenges identified in the report is the increasing demand for residential and supported living, which has already risen by four percent since 2023 and is projected to increase by 34 percent by 2030. Woodland highlighted the urgency of delivering these specialist homes as quickly as possible to meet the growing needs of vulnerable residents in Hackney.
The council’s plan aims to give residents more choice and control over their accommodation, care, and support, while also focusing on achieving efficiencies in the social care budget. By implementing a ‘bespoke’ program that prioritizes care and support costs, the council estimates that it could save £300 per week per person. This cost-saving approach allows the accommodation costs to be covered through housing benefit, ensuring that residents have access to the support they need without facing financial barriers.
Support and Urgency from Councillors
Councillor Sharon Patrick (Labour) expressed her surprise at the time it has taken to implement these plans, emphasizing the need for swift action to address the housing needs of vulnerable residents. Patrick stressed the importance of monitoring the progress of the plan and urged the committee to prioritize the development of specialised homes to meet the urgent demands of the community.
In response to Patrick’s concerns, Councillor Ben Hayhurst (Labour), committee chair, welcomed the plan and noted the council’s commitment to moving forward with energy and determination. Hayhurst acknowledged the importance of addressing the needs of vulnerable residents and ensuring that the council’s capital build program for new council homes is aligned with the development of specialised housing options.
As the Town Hall prepares to submit a bid for funding for the upcoming year, alongside an estimated program cost over the next decade, councillors are optimistic about the potential impact of these plans on improving social care services in Hackney. With a focus on efficiency, choice, and quality of care, the council is poised to make significant strides in supporting vulnerable residents and enhancing the overall well-being of the community.