Laying the Foundations: A Housing Strategy for England

A radical new strategy to reignite the housing market and get the nation building again was launched on 21 November 2011 by the Prime Minister.

The Housing Strategy sets out a package of reforms to:

• get the housing market moving again
• lay the foundations for a more responsive, effective and stable housing market in the future
• support choice and quality for tenants
• improve environmental standards and design quality.

Whilst largely aimed at revitalising a 'first time buyers' market, the strategy does recognise the considerable contribution that new housing can also make in stimulating demand for attractive new accommodation for older people, or 'last time movers'. This is welcome news and accords with the recommendations of the recent All Party Parliamentary Group on Housing and Care for Older People Inquiry report, "Living Well at Home (opens new window)" about the need for a clear housing 'offer' for older people.