Services for older & vulnerable residents
Our sheltered accommodation is generally offered to people who are aged 60+ and lead a relatively active and independent life. However we are sometimes able to accommodate applicants aged 50-60, if this is supported by one of our joint working agencies, such as social services. You do not have to be retired to apply for housing, and you do not necessarily need to have a local connection.
Most sheltered schemes are flats but we do have some bungalows.
Our sheltered accommodation is for people who still wish to have their own front doors, but like the extra security that sheltered accommodation offers. We provide sheltered housing based on choice, in a safe sustainable community, centred on your needs.
Click here to see all our sheltered schemes.
Our Elderly Services Team
We have a full team dedicated to the provision of elderly services. As well as our Scheme Support Managers, we also have an Elderly Services Manager and team co-ordinators who ensure our service delivery is excellent.
The service we offer
Our Scheme Support Managers are on duty between 8.30am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday. They offer a counselling and support role, which includes such things as help with applying for benefits, and maintaining your tenancy. They also offer daily contact, and ensure that the building is well maintained. When the Scheme Support Manager is not on duty, cover is provided by Invicta Careline, which is a 24-hour contact in case of an emergency. All residents are offered a pendant that can be worn around their neck and which can be pressed in an emergency.
Read our sheltered service standards.
Support Planning
When you move into one of our schemes, you and your Scheme Support Manager will put together your support plan. Your support plan will highlight such things as any health problems you may have through to any aspirations you may wish to achieve in your life. This will enable the manager to liaise with any agencies on your behalf who may be able to help.
Social life in our schemes
You can have as much or as little involvement in your scheme as you wish. Many of our schemes have a social club that you may wish to join. Or you may just want to get together with other residents and have coffee occasionally. It may be that you have a very active life socially already and do not want to be involved. The choice is yours!
Do I qualify?
If you are 60 or over and leading a fairly independent life you may qualify. You do not have to be retired, and you do not necessarily need to have a local connection. If you have any questions regarding your eligibility please contact us.
Are there any restrictions?
Our schemes are not for people who need constant care or nursing. If you are unsure whether this type of accommodation is suitable for you please contact our lettings team.
How long will I have to wait for accommodation?
This will vary depending on the type of accommodation you require. However we do have studio apartments available in some areas immediately.
To find out what is available contact us. Information on other accommodation within the Borough of Tunbridge Wells is available from Housing Advice at the Town Hall in Tunbridge Wells on 01892 526121.
Facilities available in our Sheltered Schemes
There are a range of facilities which help to provide a comfortable and secure environment for you. They vary from scheme to scheme but can include:
Communal gardens (all schemes)
These are maintained for you but if you enjoy gardening you can chose to become involved in looking after them.
Car Parking
For you and your visitors. In some schemes, particularly in busy areas such as near shops, you must display a parking permit. This is to stop other people parking in the spaces that are reserved for residents and their visitors. Cars that do not display a permit may be clamped and the owner will have to pay a release fee. Parking permits are available from the Manager.
Lounge with kitchen area (all schemes)
These are for everyone to enjoy and may be used by the local community for certain events.
Laundry (all schemes)
Well-equipped laundries are provided at no extra charge, although you will need to provide your own washing powder etc.
Hairdressers and other services
Schemes often have mobile hairdressers or other useful services that visit for your convenience.
Libraries
Many schemes have a library with books provided by the local Library Service. These are changed regularly and include books in large print.
Guest Rooms
Some schemes have a guest room, which can be booked for your visitors for a small charge. If your scheme does not have a guest room, it may be possible for guests to stay in a guest room at a nearby scheme. Please ask for further details.
Bathing facilities
If you find it difficult to manage on your own there are assisted bathing facilities.
Our retirement housing and support service is about helping you to help yourself. We want you to enjoy an active retirement in a safe and secure environment and we look forward to helping you achieve it.
News Exchange
News Exchange is produced by our Elderly Services Team for residents of our sheltered accommodation and other older residents.