Older People from Ethnic Minorities in Kirklees: Housing Needs and Preferences Study

Commissioned by Kirklees Council, research conducted by the Housing Learning and Improvement Network (LIN) reveals the housing (and housing related support) needs and preferences of older people from ethnic minorities living in Kirklees.

Across the UK our population is ageing, and the communities in Kirklees have more ethnic diversity than those in similar areas. This research was therefore conducted to make sure that the Council has the evidence necessary to plan for homes that meet the needs of all communities.

Findings from the ‘The Older People from Ethnic Minorities (OPEM) in Kirklees: Housing Needs and Preferences Study’ will help inform decision making and the delivery of mainstream and specialist housing and support services suited to older people from ethnic minorities now and over the next 5 to 15 years.

Several of the findings included:

• Many older people from ethnic minorities are living in properties that will not be suitable for later life because the homes are not accessible or easily adaptable and lead to some people being socially isolated or lonely.
• Older people are seeking a range of housing options and homes that will be suitable throughout their life course. This is about being able to adapt existing properties as well as designing new builds that are ‘future proof’.
• Both ‘downsizing’ and ‘rightsizing’ are important. Whilst some older people from ethnic minorities want to move to smaller, more manageable properties as they get older, others prefer a larger home where they can live with family or have family to stay for later life.
• There are several barriers that prevent older people from ethnic minorities moving to ‘housing for older people’. For example, existing stock is not culturally and/or religiously situated, there is stigma within some communities, it is associated with a care home, or there is a lack of information and advice.

Ian Copeman, Operations Director at Housing LIN, said:

“The Housing LIN feels privileged to have worked alongside Kirklees Council to conduct research into the housing needs and preferences of older people from South Asian and African/African Caribbean communities. The findings will play a pivotal role in the council’s effort to plan for homes that meet the needs of all communities. We are very grateful for the rich insights provided by both the Research Associates and Sounding Group from the local community who helped inform the purpose and direction of the research.”

Naz Parkar, Director of Homes & Neighbourhoods at Kirklees Council, commented:

“Kirklees Council, through collaboration with the Housing LIN and local residents over the summer of 2021, has gained better insights into the housing needs and preferences of older people from ethnic minority communities across Kirklees.  The findings from the study are invaluable and will help the council and partners allocate future resources to make sure all older people in our communities benefit from a more inclusive housing and support provision"

Using the evidence from this research, a series of recommendations have been developed in collaboration with the Council in three key themes: Place, People and Services.