The Head of Community Care Market Commission introduced the report of the Director of Care and Health which provided an update on Extra Care Housing in Wirral. The report set out the plan to provide appropriate Extra Care Housing schemes in Wirral that will support Wirral residents with eligible needs.

Work had been undertaken on a strategic housing management assessment to enable future planning for schemes. Projections estimated that by 2026, Wirral would need 725 units of extra care housing. It was reported that by October 2023 there would be 491 units. There were 113 people on the waiting list for extra care with high numbers in Wallasey and South Wirral. It was reported that capital had been identified that could be drawn upon for the next three years and further capital could be bid for in order to fund schemes.

In response to a query about sites across other wards, Members were informed that there were several sites currently under consideration but were not yet confirmed for progression.

Members sought clarity on the real living wage and how it was applied. The Head of Community Care Market Commission outlined that the Council supported the real living wage being applied across all sectors, there were two rates that were offered, minimum wage and real living wage. It was reported that some employers were unable to accept the real living wage rate for various reasons and then the minimum wage rate was applied.

On a motion by Councillor Phil Gilchrist, seconded by Councillor Clare O’Hagan it was -

Resolved – That

(1)  the development of further plans for the growth of Extra Care Housing for Wirral be endorsed.

(2)  engagement with potential partners to identify opportunities for further Extra Care schemes to meet local need be supported.

(3)  the progress of existing schemes that are in development be noted.

(4)  officers be requested to develop a bid for the level of capital considered necessary for progress of the programme.