Bury Council has unveiled a new 10 year strategy aimed at helping older residents live independently for longer through the development of extra care housing across the borough.
The plan includes ambitions to deliver up to five new schemes by 2035 in partnership with housing providers, developers and care organisations.
The Extra Care Housing Strategy has been developed to support older people who want to maintain their independence while having access to care and support when needed.
Extra care housing combines self contained living with on site support services. Residents have their own homes, including private kitchens and living areas, while also benefiting from shared facilities such as lounges, gardens and social spaces.
The accommodation is intended for people aged 55 and above, as well as those who may require some level of care or support either now or in the future.
Under the strategy, Bury Council plans to work with partners to increase the availability of extra care housing in response to growing demand and to provide greater choice for residents.
Potential locations identified include Prestwich, Whitefield, Tottington and Ramsbottom, alongside other areas with larger older populations. Access to transport links, shops and health services will be a key consideration when selecting sites.
The strategy also aims to help residents remain independent for longer, reduce avoidable hospital admissions and delay the need for residential care placements.
Other priorities include delivering accessible homes built to recognised design standards, creating dedicated waiting lists to better understand demand, improving awareness of housing options for later life and reviewing existing sheltered housing stock for possible refurbishment, remodelling or replacement.
Councillor Tamoor Tariq, cabinet member for health and adult care, said, “Extra care housing is more than accommodation – it creates communities that offer safety, connection and tailored support.
“It’s key to making sure we reduce avoidable admissions to hospital and residential care, making sure our residents can continue to live independently with dignity and that we support their wellbeing.”
Councillor Ayesha Arif added, “We currently have three extra care developments in the borough that are working well to provide care and support and deliver valued services for residents. We know there is high demand. particularly in areas where older people live. It’s important to our residents to continue to live in the communities they have grown up in or known. Those areas are a priority for the strategy.”
The council said the strategy was developed with stakeholders including the Bury Older People’s Network and is intended to guide future housing provision over the next decade.
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