Providing supported housing for older people and those with learning disabilities or mental health needs could lead to major savings for the public sector, the LGA has said.
Supported accommodation, which provides residents with care, support or supervision, has been shown to reduce hospital admissions and the need for residential care, with the LGA estimating an investment of £1.6 billion would generate £3.4 billion in savings across the public sector.
A series of case studies published by the LGA highlights the financial and social value of supported housing. For example, a scheme in Bradford has saved up to £47,000 per person for the NHS, while a project in Medway has helped 151 people with complex needs find employment or training in just nine months.
These examples demonstrate the vital role supported housing plays in enabling individuals to lead fulfilling, independent lives. However, years of funding cuts and the removal of ring-fenced funding in 2011 have left supported housing in a precarious position, with concerns over the quality of unregulated providers.
The LGA is calling on the Government to address these funding challenges in its Budget on 30 October, by creating a specific housing support fund, allowing councils to invest in long-term solutions.
Supported housing is just one part of the preventative care system, which also includes adapting homes and reducing isolation.
Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the LGA’s Community Wellbeing Board, emphasised the need for sustainable funding, adding: “High-quality supported housing not only improves lives, but also delivers significant savings across public services. A renewed focus on preventative care is essential for better services and long-term savings.”