Proposed by Councillor Phil Gilchrist

Seconded by Councillor Dave Mitchell

This Council welcomes the publication of 'Housing in later life' by Age UK.

Council notes that the report called on the Government to ensure that all new homes are built to the 'lifetime standard' so that they can be easily adapted as people age, with standards that allow older people with different care needs to live independently, for as long as possible.

http://www.ageuk.org.uk/latest-press/lack-of-suitable-housing-costing-the-nhs-millions-every-year/

Council notes that the document contained a number of observations and recommendations about re-ablement services, assessments of properties and commissioning strategies and future investment in extra care housing.

Council also recognises that the Government has introduced five core standards for housing.

These include new optional building regulations for accessible and adaptable mainstream housing to meet the needs of older and disabled people.

https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/housing-standards-review-technical-consultation

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/354091/02__140731__HSR_Supporting_Doc1__Access.pdf

Council requests that appropriate officers and Cabinet Members:

(1)  Review these publications and respond to the consultation.

(2)  Establish how the Council's current and emerging policies can reflect these suggestions, requests and changes.

(3)  Consider how new building projects in the Borough can be provided with hallways and doorways that enable adequate access in line with the outcome of the consultation and legislation.

(4)  Report back on their findings and on which matters they can take forward.

Following the mover and seconder speaking, the motion was put and carried (61:0) (One abstention).

Resolved (61:0) (One abstention) – That the motion be approved.