Anchor's Chief Executive, Sarah Jones, comments on today’s Spending Review made by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.
In response to the affordable housing investment announced in today’s Spending Review, Sarah says:
We are pleased to see the Government’s commitment to affordable housing and look forward to a bold, deliverable national housing and planning strategy which should have a clear and urgent focus on homes for older people.
Increasing the supply of homes for older people is essential to meet growing demand and to enable more people to live well and independently for longer. We look forward to working with the Government to ensure future delivery meets the needs of our ageing population as part of the forthcoming housing strategy.
Alongside the 10-year investment in affordable housing, the CPI+1% rent settlement and the consultation on rent convergence are welcome milestones and ones Anchor have been calling for. They provide greater certainty and confidence needed to boost investment in both new and existing homes, enabling providers to plan effectively and deliver high-quality, age-appropriate housing that our communities urgently need.
We urge Government to allocate at least 10% of Homes England’s capital funding specifically to homes for older people, alongside a mirrored commitment within local housing strategies. This would help unlock much-needed supply, enabling older people to live well and independently in homes that meet their changing needs.
This targeted investment would support the 35% of older people who, according to our research, would consider downsizing, helping them access more suitable housing while freeing up capacity for younger generations to move up the housing ladder.
By prioritising age-appropriate housing, we aim to support healthier, more independent living in later life, reduce pressure on the NHS and social care, and ease wider strain on the housing market by freeing up family homes for the next generation.
On adult social care and the Casey Commission in today's Spending Review, Sarah says:
The Government has indicated in the Spending Review that its response to the Casey Commission will outline the future direction for adult social care. However, it is vital that this issue does not slip off the agenda in the meantime.
With demand rising and costs projected to increase by over £6 billion by 2028/29, adult social care must remain a national priority. A sustainable funding plan is essential- not only to meet the needs of older people today, but to prepare for the generations to come.
With an ageing society and costs projected to increase by over £6 billion by 2028/29, adult social care must remain a national priority. A sustainable funding plan is essential- not only to meet the needs of older people today, but to prepare for the generations to come.
Dedicated housing and care for older people play a pivotal role in relieving pressure on public services. By improving individual wellbeing, reducing avoidable NHS usage, and supporting timely hospital discharges- through interventions like falls prevention and early support- we deliver meaningful outcomes for individuals and savings for the system.
We welcome the opportunity to contribute to the Casey Commission and help shape the future of care. By working together- across providers, councils and communities- we can build a system that delivers dignity, independence, and quality of life for today’s older people and future generations.
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