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Housing Choices Directory
Information for older people on housing and care options in Rushcliffe
Introduction
This directory is for older people, their families and carers, who are looking for help and advice about housing and care options in Rushcliffe. It is also aimed at advice, health and social care workers who support older people in their work. The directory is split into two sections: Section 1: Support for older people choosing to stay living at home Section 2: Information about moving to alternative accommodationIf you would like a copy in large print please call Housing Choices on
0115 9699060 ext 106
This resource has been compiled by Housing Choices, which is a project of Rushcliffe Community & Voluntary Service, a registered charity No. 1079880 and a company limited by guarantee No. 3867757, registered in England and Wales. Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service are committed to equality of opportunity in all that it does. Housing Choices is a project that is being piloted in both Rushcliffe and Bassetlaw until October 2011 although funding may continue beyond then.
If you’d like any more information on the work of Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service then please contact us: Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service, Level 3a, Bridgford House, Pavilion Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 5GJ Tel: 0115 9699060 ext 106 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rushcliffecvs.org.uk Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to make sure that the information in this directory is accurate. Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service accept no responsibility for errors or omissions.
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Contents
About Housing Choices and FirstStop 4 Section 1: Support and help to stay living where you are 5 Advocacy 5 Benefits and financial advice 5 Bereavement 6 Debt counselling and advice 7 Falls prevention 7 General advice 8 Getting out and about 9 Grants from benevolent funds for adaptations 9 Help coming home from hospital 10 Help with washing, dressing and eating 10 Home help 11 Home safety and security 12 Independent financial advisors 13 Keeping the home warm 13 Making adaptations to the home 14 Making repairs and maintaining the home 15 Social and recreational groups for older people 16 Section 2: Information about moving to alternative accommodation 18 You are a social tenant 18 You rent your property privately 18 Buying a more suitable property 19 About Sheltered Accommodation 19 Moving to rented Sheltered Housing 19 Choice Based Lettings 20 Abbeyfield Schemes 20 Buying Sheltered or Retirement Housing 20 Moving in with family 21 Moving into a care home 21 Residential Care ‐ self funding 22 Residential Care ‐ support from the local authority 22About Housing Choices and FirstStop
Housing Choices is a free service for older people in Rushcliffe to provide advice and information on housing related issues. The service is aimed at older people, their families and carers, who recognise that they are starting to find things difficult in their own homes and want to consider their options to meet their changing needs. These might include making changes to their existing property, getting more support to live at home or moving to more suitable accommodation. The Housing Choices Advisor can: • Visit older people at home to provide information, advice or support • Give support in exploring different housing options and help put these changes in place (e.g. accompanying an older person to visit a property or help filling in forms) • Give support in the moving process, if necessary • Refer on to other local services • Raise awareness of the wider advice and support available through FirstStop Housing Choices is funded by Nottinghamshire County Council, Rushcliffe Borough Council and FirstStop and is managed by Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service. For more information or to arrange an appointment for a home visit contact either Jessica Molineaux – Housing Choices Advisor, or Emily Popham – Housing Choices Assistant Telephone: 0115 9699060 ext 106 Email: [email protected] Address: Housing Choices, Rushcliffe Community & Voluntary Service, Level 3a, Bridgford House, Pavilion Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 5GJ You can also contact Housing Choices Caseworker at Retford Action Centre covering Bassetlaw. Telephone: 01777 709650 or Email: [email protected] FirstStop brings together a wealth of expertise through one telephone number and one website to help older people and their carers explore the choices open to them and access the housing, support and care services they need. The service is provided by Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC) in partnership with other national and local organisations. Anyone can access the FirstStop website and telephone advice line for information and advice on a wide range of issues including finance, benefits and care options. There are downloadable leaflets and a housing and care options directory which you can use to search for residential/care homes and sheltered housing in your local area. Website: www.firststopcareadvice.org.uk Advice Line: 0800 377 70 705
Section 1: Support for older people
choosing to stay living at home
Advocacy
Age UK Advocacy Service The service offers support to older people, aged 65 years and over, living in our local communities and residential or nursing homes. The service is free, confidential and independent. For more information contact Age UK Notts Telephone: 0115 9194880 Email: [email protected] Address: The Sybil Levin Centre, Age UK Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, 578 Nuthall Road, Cinderhill, Nottingham, NG8 6ADNottingham and Notts Advocacy Alliance The Nottingham & Nottinghamshire Advocacy Alliance is an independent voluntary organisation providing advocacy, training and other opportunities for vulnerable people to speak out and have a say about their own interests, services and the decisions made about them. For more information contact Telephone: 01623 662664 Address: The Brooks Unit (TB3), Kings Mill Centre, Mansfield Road, Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire NG17 4NA
Benefits and financial advice
How do I make sure I am receiving all the benefits I am entitled to? Local Pension Service – provide information and advice about claiming benefits. They can advise you over the phone or arrange to visit you at home if necessary. Telephone 0845 6060265. Also see www.direct.gov.uk Please note that the rules regarding Benefits change regularly, the information below was correct at the time it was collated. Pension Credit – means tested, non‐taxable benefit payable in two parts: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit. Extra premiums may be paid if either yourself and/or your partner receive Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance at middle or high rate care.Attendance Allowance – a non‐means tested, non taxable allowance for people aged 65 years or over who are physically or mentally disabled and need personal care. It is paid at two rates, depending on your care needs. Disability Living Allowance ‐ a non‐means tested non‐taxable benefit paid to people under the age of 65 years who are physically or mentally disabled. There are two components, the care component and the mobility component. Both are paid at different rates, depending on your care and mobility problems. Carers Allowance ‐ a non‐means tested but taxable benefit. You may be eligible if you are over 16, you regularly spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone who receives Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance at middle or high rate care and you earn less than £100pw. Note that: the amount you receive can depend on and can affect other benefits you and the cared for person receive. Winter Fuel Payment ‐ an annual amount paid if you are aged 60 years or over (it is paid at a higher rate for people over 80). Non‐means tested. Cold weather payments ‐ if you get Pension Credit or certain other income‐related benefits, you will get a payment when the average temperature in your area is freezing or below for seven days in a row. Council Tax Benefit – if you are on a low income, or live alone, you may be entitled to a reduction to your council tax. In some circumstances there are also reductions if a member of the household has a significant physical or other disability. Contact Rushcliffe Borough Council for details. Telephone 0115 981 9911 or www.rushcliffe.gov.uk Housing Benefit – if you on a low income (eg if you are on Guarantee Credit), and rent your home, you may be able to get some help with the rent. Contact Rushcliffe Borough Council for details. Telephone 0115 981 9911 or www.rushcliffe.gov.uk
Bereavement
CRUSE Bereavement Care CRUSE Bereavement Care is a national charity with branches all over the UK. The organisation offers a telephone helpline service and face‐to‐face support and counselling for those who are suffering the loss of a loved one. To contact the local Rushcliffe Branch telephone 0115 98253487 Age UK’s Harmony Counselling Service This counselling service is for those who are 60 and over and live in Nottinghamshire or Nottingham City. The service is free and confidential, and Harmony is a member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy. For more information or to make a referral for yourself contact Telephone 0115 919 4876 Email: [email protected] Address: Harmony Counselling Service, Age UK Nottingham and Notts, The Sybil Levin Centre, 578 Nuthall Road, Cinderhill, Nottingham, NG8 6AD
Debt Counselling and Advice
The National Debt Line is a national, independent and confidential free service. Contact them for advice and information on 0808 808 4000 or visit the website www.nationdebtline.co.uk Nottingham & District Citizens Advice Bureau can also offer advice and support for people who are in debt. You can contact them on 0115 9388050 or visit www.nottinghamcab.org.uk Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a national debt counselling charity with a network of centres across the UK. CAP offers hope and a solution to anyone in debt through its unique, in‐depth service. It is a free service and home visits are available. Contact 01274 760720 or visit the website www.capuk.org Local Advice Centres may also be able to provide debt counselling. For contact details see under ‘General Advice’.Falls Prevention
The Community Rehabilitation Team is based from Lings Bar Hospital in West Bridgford and see people who live in the Rushcliffe area. The service visits you in your own home and has an expertise in the prevention and management of falls. There are two services under the umbrella of Community Rehabilitation: Intermediate Care Team This is a team made up of nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and support workers who offer short term (up to 6 weeks) intensive rehabilitation within your ownhome. With the team you will set goals you wish to achieve and you will be offered advice, support and help to achieve those goals. Primary Care Rehabilitation Team This is a team of physiotherapists, occupational therapists and support workers who are able to offer you advice, support and rehabilitation within your own home. This is a less intensive intervention than with Intermediate Care and over a longer period of time. The therapist and support workers will work with you to agree goals you would like to achieve and agree with you a programme to support you to achieve those goals. If you have fallen or are worried about falling, you can either ask your doctor to refer you to the Community Rehabilitation Team or you can refer yourself by ringing 0115 8462470, where your details will be taken and you can explain what difficulties you may be having.
General Advice
Community Outreach Advisor Service Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service run the Community Outreach Advisor Service for people over 50. The Advisor is able to visit people at home to give advice on a wide range of issues from home repairs, to benefits to getting out and about. For more information about this service contact Eleanor Price at Rushcliffe CVS on 0115 9699060 or email [email protected] West Bridgford Advice Centre The Advice Centre offers a free, confidential, ‘no appointment’ advice service to all members of the public. They can help and advise on attendance allowance, disability allowance, maternity benefits, housing, council tax, income support and form filling. West Bridgford Advice Centre is based at St Giles Church Hall, on Stratford Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 5NA on Wednesday mornings from 9.30am to 12.30pm. For more information contact the Advice Centre on 0115 9821475 or email [email protected] Radcliffe on Trent Advice Centre offers a similar service. They are based at The Grange, Radcliffe on Trent, Nottingham NG12 2FB and are open on Thursday mornings 9.30am – 12.30pm and can be contacted on 0796 864 2243 Cotgrave Advice Centre is open Tuesdays and Thursdays 9am – 12 noon at the Methodist Church Hall (behind the Methodist Church), Bingham Road, Cotgrave, NG12 3JR. Telephone: 0115 9893294 or Email: [email protected]9 Friary Drop‐In for the Homeless and Unemployed Friary Drop‐In Centre in West Bridgford receives over 15,000 visitors a year and gives help and advice on many housing related issues, from welfare rights, benefits and tenancy support to running courses such as how to cook and eat on a budget. Telephone (Centre): 0115 9825448 or Telephone (Office): 0115 9810009 Email: admin@friarydrop‐in‐org.uk Website: www.friarydrop‐in.org.uk Housing Options Team at Rushcliffe Borough Council The Housing Options and Private Sector Housing (Environmental Health) Teams work on a daily basis to provide assistance to those in any form of housing need. They work together to assist with any housing related query whether you are a homeowner, private or social rented tenant, or you do not have anywhere to live. Contact the Housing Options Team by calling the Customer Service Centre on 0115 9819911 Consumer Direct is a government funded website for everyone to use. Visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
Grants from Benevolent Funds for adaptations
The Royal British Legion can provide support to serving and ex‐Service people and their dependants who are suffering financially. They are also there for those who need urgent assistance to get through a temporary crisis, such as homelessness, or providing a loan for property repairs. If you have a connection to the armed forces then you may be entitled to a grant or loan to help with the costs of adaptations to the home. Tel: 08457 725 725 Address: Grant Giving & National Initiatives, The Royal British Legion, Haig House, 199 Borough High Street, London SE1 1AA Website: www.britishlegion.org.uk The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) may also be able to assist with financial costs for those who are serving or ex‐Service people. Contact the SSAFA on telephone: 020 7403 8783 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ssfa.org.uk Address: SSAFA, 19 Queen Elizabeth Street, London, SE1 2LP There are also a wide range of benevolent funds and other sources of financial assistance for individuals available. For more information on these visit www.turn2us.org.ukGetting out and about
Rushcliffe Voluntary Transport Scheme (RVTS) Rushcliffe Voluntary Transport Scheme helps people with no alternative means of transport to make necessary journeys. These include visiting the dentist, GP, opticians, chiropodists, shopping, social clubs, college and visiting friends or relatives in hospital. To use the scheme a person must be unable to make their journey using public or any other means of transport. Reasons for eligibility might include geographical remoteness, disability or ill health. It costs £20 to register for the year and passengers pay 42p per mile for all the mileage the volunteer driver incurs. For more information contact Jayne Randle at Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service. Telephone: 0115 9699060 Email: [email protected] Address: Rushcliffe CVS, Level 3a, Bridgford House, Pavilion Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 5GJ Other community transport schemes Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service have compiled a list of other community transport schemes including details of how to get a disabled parking badge (Blue Badge), Shopmobility and using Hospital Transport. If you would like a copy of the booklet contact Rushcliffe CVS on 0115 9699060 or email [email protected]Help after coming home from Hospital
British Red Cross Hospital Discharge service Volunteers can help those who have been recently discharged from hospital to do ordinary everyday tasks that at first are a struggle, like getting the shopping, cleaning and making a meal. For more information about this service contact Sue Button at the British Red Cross (based at QMC hospital) on 0115 9249924 extension 62495Help with washing, dressing and eating
Adult Social Care and Health If you are struggling to cope with daily tasks such as getting out of bed, dressing and bathing, have recently had an accident or illness or are worried about living at home alone, you may be eligible to get support from Nottinghamshire Adult Social Care and Health There are 3 steps to getting support11 1) Re‐ablement: Carried out by the Short Term Assessment and Re‐ablement Team (START) to help you regain any skills you need to live independently. This support can last up to 6 weeks. 2) Assessment: If you need help for more than 6 weeks then an assessment is carried out to work out what your longer‐term social care needs are. 3) Longer term support: If you are assessed as needing longer‐term support then Adult Social Care and Health will offer you a Personal Budget (which you can use to pay for your own support using a Support Plan which you use to decide how you spend the money allocated to you) For more information contact the Customer Service Centre at Nottinghamshire County Council on 08449 80 80 80 Home Care Services Adult Social Care and Health have a list of home care services that are vetted by them. Contact Housing Choices on 0115 9148315 for a copy.
Home Help
New Life Shopping Service – West Bridgford This free service is available to anyone over 60 who is unable to do their own shopping and has nobody to do it for them. The service operates in the West Bridgford / Lady Bay / Gamston areas. All shoppers are volunteers and have been checked with the CRB (Criminal Records Bureau). For more information contact the New Life Shopping Service on 07982235717 between 9.00am and 1.00pm. Meals at Home Meals at Home is a service of Nottinghamshire County Council to supply older and vulnerable people with meals direct to their homes. Meals can be supplied in the long‐ term or just for a short‐term period when somebody may be recovering from an illness or operation for example. Meals can be delivered either as frozen meals, chilled or hot and ready to eat, and are prepared to suit dietary requirements. To find out if you are eligible for the service contact Meals and Home on 08449 80 80 80 Other home delivery meal services: Wiltshire Farm Foods, Nottingham Local Outlet Telephone Number: 01476 565353 Email: [email protected] Website: www.wiltshirefarmfoods.comOakhouse Foods Local Oakhouse Foods Franchisee Telephone Number: 01526 320222 Email: [email protected] Website: www.oakhousefoods.co.uk
Home Safety and Security
First Contact Signposting Scheme Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service run the First Contact Scheme for older people over the age of 60 in the Rushcliffe, Gedling and Broxtowe areas. First Contact works with public and voluntary services like Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, the Pension Service, Falls Prevention Team and Local Voluntary Transport Scheme to help older people stay living in their homes and keep safe and well. By filling in a simple checklist, older people can refer themselves to many services all at once. For a self‐referral form contact First Contact at Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service on 0115 9699060 or email [email protected] LifeLine Home Alarms Service People who feel vulnerable or at risk in the home may benefit from having a home alarm which can be used in an emergency to get help, bringing peace of mind, reassurance and independence. The home alarm can be worn as a pendent, a wrist strap or a clothing clip, and is connected to a 24 hour, 7 day a week response service. The service costs between £2.15 and £3.20 per week and is supplied through Rushcliffe Borough Council. If you are interested in getting a Home Alarm you can make an appointment for a visit by a LifeLine Officer who can give a free demonstration. Telephone the Housing Support Team: 0115 9813277 Age Concern Personal Alarm Service Age Concern also offers a personal alarm service with a 24 hours a day emergency response centre. Telephone (Free Phone) 0800 77 22 66 Visit the Age Concern website www.ageuk.org.uk Fire Safety Check and Smoke Alarms Notts Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) can give advice on how to prevent home fires and how to keep safe in the home. They may also be able to fit smoke alarms. If you have any concerns regarding fire safety and would like advice, visit www.notts‐fire.gov.uk or telephone 0800 022323513 Nottinghamshire Police Crime Reduction They offer advice on crime reduction and home security including door and window locks, security chains, peep holes and security lights. For more information contact your local Beat Police Office by calling Nottinghamshire Police 0300 300 9999
Independent Financial Advisors
There are several websites that can signpost you to local independent financial advisors. www.moneymadeclear.org.uk is operated by the Consumer Financial Education Body. www.unbiased.co.uk can help you find Independent Financial Advice, Mortgage Advice, Accountants and Solicitors www.firststopadvice.org.uk FirstStop is operated by Elderly Accommodation Counsel and can give financial advice including: Releasing capital from your home (equity release), handling another person’s finances, state benefits, paying for your care and other financial advice. You can see whether the Financial Advisors you are using are registered with the Financial Services Authority by checking online at www.fsa.gov.uk or by calling 0845 606 1234Keeping the Home Warm
Greater Nottingham Healthy Housing Service The Greater Nottingham Healthy Housing Service aims to eradicate fuel poverty in the Greater Nottingham area by maximising the take‐up of grants for insulation and heating measures through cooperation between local authorities, health, social services, the voluntary sector and housing professionals. For further information and to apply for the grant, contact the Greater Nottingham Healthy Housing Service on 0115 947 2207 who will then contact Warm Front on your behalf. The Greater Nottingham Healthy Housing Service can also refer you to the fire service for free smoke detectors and other products that will help to improve your home. Warm Front Warm Front is a government funded initiative that provides grants to help those who are most vulnerable or elderly to keep their homes warm. If you are struggling to keep your home warm and you are a home owner or private tenant and in receipt of a qualifying benefit such as income support, attendance allowance and council tax benefit, you may beeligible for a grant from the government’s Warm Front Scheme. The grant can pay for damp proofing, extra heaters, cavity wall insulation and loft insulation. Contact Warm Front on Freephone 0800 316 2805. Visit the Warm Front website www.warmfront.co.uk Rushcliffe Borough Council Grants Some grants for keeping the home warm may be available through Rushcliffe Borough Council. To find out what is available contact the Customer Service Centre on 0115 9819911 Monday – Friday 8am to 6pm or you can email [email protected] Visit the Rushcliffe Borough Council website www.rushcliffe.gov.uk
Making adaptations to the home
Occupational Therapy Department at Adult Social Care and Health You may need to make some adaptations to your home to enable you to continue living independently. Minor adaptations might include grab rails, bath seats or portable equipment. If you are still struggling at home, you may need other changes making such as a stair lift, a walk in shower or a downstairs toilet. A Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) may be available if you are assessed as needing major adaptations like these. You will need to contact your social services team for an occupational therapy assessment. Telephone: 08449 80 80 80 Address: Occupational Therapy Department, The Hall, Bridgford Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 6AD Everyday Living Equipment Adult Social Care and Health can also provide small items of equipment free of charge to help with everyday tasks such as picking things up off the floor and holding cutlery. Some of the items available are: Kettle tipper, special cutlery, helping hand, toilet frames. Contact the Occupational Therapy team for more information about how to apply: Tel: 01623 434 457 Email: [email protected] Address: Everyday Living Equipment Team, C/O Occupational Therapy Team, Lawn View House, 40 Station Road, Sutton in Ashfield. NG17 5GA The Disabilities Living Centre (DLC) The Disabilities Living Centre provides information, advice and assessments on equipment and services for disabled people, elderly people, their carers and professional staff. Tel: 0115 9855780 Email: [email protected]15 Website: www.dlcnotts.co.uk Address: Middleton Court, Glaisdale Parkway, Glaisdale Drive West, Nottingham, NG8 4GP Preventative Adaptations Service (PAS) This scheme is designed for those over 70 living in Rushcliffe. It helps promote independence, safety and security in the home by assisting with small adaptations. Tel: 08449 80 80 80
Making repairs and maintaining the home
South Nottinghamshire Handy Person Service The service helps older or disabled residents, and their carers, with odd jobs around the home. It can be accessed by owner occupiers, tenants of local authorities, housing associations or private landlords. They can help with jobs such as: putting together flat‐ pack furniture, putting up curtains and blinds, moving furniture, bleeding radiators and fitting door or window locks. The service cost £10 per hour for up to two hours, plus materials. Contact the service on 08449 80 80 80 Poppy Calls Maintenance Service – Royal British Legion The Poppy Calls service aims to help give veterans and members of the ex‐Service community the freedom to stay independent in their own homes. This scheme is designed to offer help with awkward jobs such as minor repairs, or fitting essential devices such as smoke detectors and care phones. Poppy Calls have a centralised call centre which handles all the fitter appointments and ensures a consistent standard of service across the country. Contact them on 01480 478031. Age UK’s Business Directory The directory is a one‐stop shop and an online resource which contains details of many businesses such as plumbers, electricians, gardeners, painters and decorators, builders andsolicitors. Businesses listed have been checked by Age UK and who have agreed to work to Age UK’s Customer Charter. Visit the Business Directory website www.acbd.co.uk Buy with Confidence Scheme All the businesses on this government web site have been vetted and approved by Trading Standards to ensure that they operate in a legal, honest and fair way. Visit the Buy with Confidence website www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk TrustMark TrustMark is an online resource that helps you find reliable, trustworthy tradesmen to make improvements and repairs inside and outside your home. TrustMark is a not for profit organisation supported by Government, the building industry, retailers and consumer protection groups. Visit the TrustMark website www.trustmark.org.uk
Social and recreational groups for older people
There are many social and recreational groups across Rushcliffe for older people. Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service has compiled lists of social activities in the following areas: West Bridgford, Ruddington, Radcliffe on Trent, Cotgrave, Keyworth, East Leake, Bingham and Tollerton. If you would like details for any of these then please contact Rushcliffe CVS on 0115 9699060 or email [email protected] You may be able to find out about other local groups and activities on the following websites: www.notts50plus.co.uk and www.pin‐point.org.uk or by contacting your local library Call in Time Call in Time is the national telephone befriending service offered by Age UK. The service can be used by older people who feel isolated and lonely. For more information contact Age UK by telephone on 0800 169 6565 Activity Friends Activity Friends is a scheme for the over 50s to help them become more active with the help of an ‘Activity Friend’ – a volunteer who is also over 50. Activity Friends volunteers accompany clients activities such as walking to the shops, gardening, dancing, bowling, swimming or exercise classes. To find out more about the scheme contact Lindsay Knott at Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service on 0115 9699060 or email [email protected]17 Contact the Elderly organise regular Sunday afternoon tea parties for people over 75, who live alone with little or no social support. The afternoons are full of fun and laughter and make a real difference. Find out if there is local group by contacting 020 7240 0630 or email info@contact‐the‐elderly.org.uk Self Help Groups Nottingham Self Help Directory contains information and contact details for a vast number of groups and organisations such as the Alzheimers Society, Notts Royal Society for the Blind and the Parkinson’s Disease Socieity. Many of these groups and organisations also run social activities and support groups. For more information visit the self‐help website www.self‐help.org.uk or telephone 0115 911 1661 Monday to Friday 9.00am to 1.00pm.
Section 2: Information about moving
to alternative accommodation
In this Section you can find out about the various options for moving to a more suitable property. Here are some of the options:
You are a social tenant
If you are a social tenant and you are struggling in your property then you can apply to Spirita (or your Housing Association) for a transfer to a more suitable property. Contact Spirita Housing Association on 0115 988 7100 or visit their website www.spirita.org.uk You can find out about other Housing Associations in Rushcliffe by contacting Housing Choices on 0115 9699060 ext 106 You may be able to find more suitable social housing properties through the Homeswapper scheme. You can register with the scheme online and search for other registered social housing properties to see if there is one that suits your needs. The idea of the scheme is that you can ‘home swap’ with others as a way of finding a solution that is mutually beneficial. Visit the Homeswapper website for more information www.homeswapper.co.ukYou rent your property privately
If you rent privately, you may find it helpful to view the property listings in the local press, for example the Nottingham Post do a weekly pull‐out on a Thursday. For properties in the south of the Borough the Loughborough Echo advertises properties weekly. For properties towards the east of the Borough the Grantham Citizen and Grantham Journal advertise properties weekly. There is also a wealth of information online, and you can view properties on property websites such as www.findaproperty.com and www.nestoria.co.uk Housing Benefit Housing benefit may be available to those on low incomes, to help with private rental costs. For more information contact Rushcliffe Borough Council on 0115 981 991119
Buying a more suitable property
If you are a homeowner and want to buy a more suitable property, for example a bungalow, retirement housing or a property in an area close to shops, then you can approach your local estate agents for lists of available properties to buy. Housing Choices has compiled a list of local estate and letting agents. If you would like a list of these please contact us on 0115 9148315 Mobile Home Parks have properties for purchase. The cost of these vary but are usually cheaper than conventional houses/bungalows. However note that access to public transport is often an issue. There are several sites across Rushcliffe. For more information visit the Park Home Living website www.parkhome‐living.co.ukAbout sheltered accommodation
Sheltered accommodation is varied across Rushcliffe. Sheltered housing usually has a scheme manager (not always on‐site) who provides support and helps people find out about local services, and a 24 hour emergency alarm service. Meals are not usually provided, but there may be social activities or a weekly lunchclub. Extra Care housing provides more in the way of care and support. It is designed with the needs of frailer older people in mind. Close care housing is a sheltered housing scheme which is attached to a residential care home. Retirement villages are usually larger complexes and generally offer more leisure and care facilities than mainstream sheltered housing. If you would like to find out more about sheltered housing, including types, locations and contact details then please contact Housing Choices on 0115 9148315.Moving to rented Sheltered Housing
Spirita have a wide range of sheltered schemes in the Rushcliffe area, some in complexes, some in groups of bungalows. If you would like to apply to rent a property at a sheltered housing scheme with Spirita then you will need to contact them to ask for an application form. The allocations policy means that you will be banded according to your housing need. While applications from homeowners are accepted if you are in need of housing, it can take a long time to be offered accommodation if you have no medical or housingneeds. Contact Rushcliffe Borough Council for an application form by calling 0115 9819911 apply online www.home‐search.org.uk Other Registered Social Landlords Other rental sheltered housing schemes in Rushcliffe are run by: De Montford Housing (Epperstone Court in West Bridgford) Eastern Shires House, 80 The Parade , Oadby, Leicestershire, LE2 5BF Tel: 0116 220 5555 Website: www.demontfordhousing.co.uk Anchor Housing Trust (Miriam Court and Peveril Court, both in West Bridgford) Milestone Place, 100 Bolton Road, Bradford, BD1 4DH Tel: 0845 7758595 Website: www.anchorhousing.co.uk A full list and contact details can be found on the Rushcliffe Borough Council website www.rushcliffe.gov.uk
Changes for 2011 ‐ Choice Based Lettings
During 2011 Rushcliffe Borough Council, in partnership with Spirita and some of the other housing associations is to implement a Choice Based Lettings Scheme, called Home Search. This will mean that, once you have been through the registration process, and been awarded a priority banding, the onus will be on you to bid (register your interest in) for vacant properties from a regularly published listing.Abbeyfield Schemes
Abbeyfield schemes are small sheltered schemes sometimes with shared facilities and meals provided. There aren’t actually any Abbeyfield Schemes in Rushcliffe at present ‐ the nearest schemes are in Nottingham, Burton Joyce and Loughborough. For more information about these contact Abbeyfield on 01727 857536 or visit their website www.abbeyfield.comBuying Sheltered or Retirement Housing
Prices can vary widely between different sheltered housing schemes. These schemes are typically run by a management company who employ the scheme manager and arrange the maintenance of shared areas. A service charge will be levied, and you will pay ground rent, and council tax as well as the usual utilities. Most properties are sold on a leasehold basis. Some are available on a shared ownership or lifetime lease arrangement.21 To find out more about sheltered and retirement housing to buy you contact local estate agents to see what properties are available. You can also contact the scheme manager of the sheltered/ retirement housing you are interested in and arrange a time to visit the property to see if it meets your needs and you like it. Housing Choices has compiled lists of both estate and letting agents and of sheltered housing schemes in Rushcliffe. If you would like a copy of either of these then contact Housing Choices on 0115 9699060 ext 106
Moving in with family
If you are considering moving in to a relative’s home then you might want to think about a number of issues. These include whether you will be able to retain your independence; will you be close to shops and local amenities; will you still be able to see your friends and relatives; what would happen if the family relationship broke down. It is advisable to get legal and financial advice before moving in with a family and to make a written agreement about how to address disputes and how to end the arrangement if necessary. For more advice on this contact FirstStop Advice Line on 0800 377 7070Moving into a Care Home
There are different types of Care Homes: Personal care only – help with dressing and bathing, but no nursing care. Nursing care – some of the nursing costs may be covered by NHS Dementia care – for those with specialist needs relating to dementia Respite care – for people whose carers need a break or who need to recuperate after an illness For a general overview of what care homes are available in Rushcliffe see the “Nottinghamshire Care Services Directory” booklet which can be downloaded from www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk click on Adult social care and health > Housing choices > Care homes. Alternatively phone 08449 808080 to ask for a copy. All care homes are regularly inspected by the Care Quality Commission ‐ www.cqc.org.uk If you think you may need a place in a residential care home, whether or not you are self‐ funding, it is recommended that you are referred for a community care assessment from Adult Social Care and Health (Social Services) at Nottinghamshire County Council. Telephone 08449 808080Additionally you can contact the home to arrange an initial visit. Care homes currently cost an average of £500 a week. Currently, if you have capital and savings of less than £23,000 or over, you may not be entitled to some assistance from Nottinghamshire County Council.
Residential Care – Self Funding
You may be able to self‐fund living in a care home. You will need to make sure you are receiving Attendance Allowance at the appropriate level. To do this contact the Local Pension Service (see above). It is strongly advised that you seek professional and independent advice on the best way to invest your capital to pay for your future care. More advice about self‐funding for living in care homes can be found in the First Stop booklet on ‘Housing and Care Options for Older People’. Call the Housing Choices service on 0115 9699060 ext 106 if you would like us to send you a copy. Alternatively, contact the First Stop Advice Line on 0800 377 7070 or visit www.firststopadvice.org.uk Contact your financial advisor, or locate an Independent Financial Advisor (see above). To be allowed to give financial advice specifically on long‐term care costs, Independent Financial Advisors should have the CF8 accreditation which is Long Term Care Insurance and this can provide security for client’s futures so that they are able to receive long term care either at home or in a residential care home. See Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA) www.societyoflaterlifeadvisers.co.uk or telephone 0845 303 2909 You can also contact the NHFA for information and advice on planning for long‐term care funding. As specialist care fees advisers they provide financial advice to help you understand any state help you are entitled to and make informed decisions as to the optimum solution to enable you to afford the best quality care in line with your individual circumstances. NHFA also offer an advice line to help you with broader issues relating to long term care decisions. Call the NHFA Care Advice Line on 0800 99 88 33 If you are self‐funding, you must inform the local authority when your capital levels start to reduce to near the £23,000 threshold, so that they can re‐assess your eligibility for assistance.Residential care ‐ Support from the local authority
You may be entitled to some help towards your care home fees if you have less than £23,000 in savings and capital which includes the value of your property. If you need some support from the local authority you should ask for a financial assessment from Nottinghamshire County Council, call 08449 80 80 8023 Your property is not taken into account for the first 12 weeks of when you move permanently into a care home, or if your husband or other relative over 60 (or disabled) still lives in the property. Note that if you choose a care home that charges more than your local authority pays, the additional cost will need to be covered by a third party (i.e. a relative, family member or friend); you cannot make this payment yourself. You need to take this into account even if you self‐fund to start with, as you may need to ask the local authority to assist in the future. For more information on paying for residential care contact Nottinghamshire County Council on 08449 80 80 80 or contact First Stop Advice Line on 0800 377 70 70
