Sheltered accommodation is a type of housing that helps people over 60 live independently, with the added reassurance that support is nearby if needed. You live in your own self-contained flat or room, but with the security of having an emergency alarm system and a scheme manager (sometimes called a warden) who checks in regularly.
There are often shared spaces, so it’s easy to meet other people and take part in social activities if you’d like to.
Who is it for?
Sheltered housing is mainly for people aged 60 and over who:
- want to stay independent but feel safer with support nearby
- may find everyday life in their current home more difficult
- would benefit from living in a community with others
- don’t yet need full-time care, but want to know there is help nearby in an emergency
You don’t need to have a care package in place, but you should be able to manage most daily tasks yourself. Staff are not there to provide personal care, shopping, or regular help — but they are trained to respond if something goes wrong.
What’s included?
Sheltered housing usually offers:
- a small self-contained flat or sometimes a room in a complex with shared facilities
- 24-hour emergency alarm system
- warden or scheme manager who checks in daily and responds to emergencies
- communal lounge or garden for socialising
- some schemes may also have lifts, guest rooms, or laundry facilities
Sheltered housing is not the same as extra care or a care home — personal care such as help with dressing or bathing is not included but can be arranged separately through homecare.
How to apply
To apply for sheltered housing in Brent, you will need to join the Locata housing register. This is how we manage applications for social housing.