§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (1) what assessment he has made of the role of scheme managers or wardens of sheltered housing schemes following the introduction of "supporting people"; [9133]
(2) if he will make a statement on his Department's strategy towards "supporting people", with particular reference to its impact on sheltered housing. [9131]
§ Ms KeebleDraft guidance that my Department has developed through consultation with all the major stakeholders, including sheltered housing providers, is due to be issued on 31 October.
The Government are committed to supporting the independence of older people, both in their own homes, and in sheltered accommodation, if this is their choice. Local authorities are responsible for assessing housing and support needs in their local areas. Best value reviews of services to older people, and service level reviews of sheltered housing which receive "supporting people" grant, will together help local authorities ensure that sheltered housing provides high quality accommodation and support where it is needed most.