Sheltered housing allows you to rent or buy a flat or bungalow in a block or on a small estate where there are usually also communal areas such as a lounge, kitchen, laundry and gardens. The properties are designed to make life a little easier for residents (usually aged 55+) with features such as raised electric sockets, lowered worktops and walk-in showers, some will be designed to accommodate wheelchair users. Schemes will usually have a warden or manager either living on site or available during the daytime and a 24-hour emergency alarm system (sometimes called 'community alarm service') to call help if needed.
Try our new waste collection postcode checker
An easy way to check whether your home has been assessed for wheelie bins or an alternative from September