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Fragmented UK: Reconnecting people by creating communities where people love living in later life

Fragmented UK Reconnecting people by creating communities where people love living in later life cover

This report by Anchor explores how our society has changed, identifying the accompanying challenges and how increasing housing options for older people can help to meet these challenges.

With reference to a Housing LIN report for the Local Government Association that estimated a shortfall of 400,000 older people’s housing units by 2035, this report shows that, without decisive action, this shortfall will only get worse in the coming decades.

However, the evidence in the Fragmented UK report also represents a clear opportunity to ensure housing forms a major part of the solution to address issues faced by our ageing population and the wider society.

This report’s key findings highlight the important role older people’s housing can play for all areas of society, helping older people to fulfil their expectations of later life, live healthier, more independent lives for longer and contribute to local communities whilst enhancing economic growth and the prospects for younger generations and families.

They include:

  • A disparity exists between the expectations of later life amongst older people and the perceptions of younger people
  • A lack of awareness exists throughout society as to the housing options available to people in later life.
  • Where awareness exists, demand follows.
  • A number of steps from Central Government and local authorities could help to unlock investment in the sector and drive development.
  • The benefits across Government are wide-ranging.

This report also provides a set of recommendations for overcoming these challenges and how to grasp the opportunities.