Is this the best way to live in retirement if you're on your own?

It's a wonderful idea and I do hope they let animals in, that would be the icing n the cake.

Why are some of you hostile to the idea of living within an all female community? Surely it would depend on the women. What does a male offer that a female can't?

I'm assuming this social sheltered housing is only available to existing occupants of social housing though?

GrandMatte we drove round a complex like that when we visited NZ. If I remember correctly there were substantial properties for the over 60s, then you could downsize (on the same complex) and then move into the central area when you could no longer live independently. This central area was a bit like an upmarket residential home with nursing staff.

Not for me, I'm afraid. I hate the thought of living in a 'one age' community- let alone women only

Why the sad face for women only? Seriously ladies tuck it in, your internalised misogyny is showing.

@Anya

My mother has just moved into a housing-association community like this, with mixed owner-occupied/rented apartments. She was lucky to get the place, because she had never lived in social housing and wouldn't normally be eligible, but her health is deteriorating quite fast. So far, she's quite happy with it and feels that there's somebody there if necessary.

re the ones that say they would never live in sheltered, dont knock until youve tried it, its not like it used to be, far from it.

That's good to know DD and I'm sure it puts your mind at rest too.

Misoginy - not at all, au contraire. The sad face is not about the women, it is about single age, single sex ... and to a large extent single 'type' (call it class if you wish - it is not cheap to live in those places and it does 'select'), different cultures - I like to share my life with people of all ages and all sexes (yes, there is more than 2 among our close friends).

This looks very interesting granoffour have made a note of it in my housing in later life folder. Thank you

I saw that granoffour on BBC news I think it's great idea would work out really well I wouldn't mind that at all.

I like the idea of living in a real community with plenty of well disposed people nearby, but to my mind a real community includes men. They are pretty nice on the whole!

I worked in social housing for almost 25 years, the vast majority of sheltered schemes were very good, lots of social events, coffee mornings, whist drives and other activities arranged by the residents for those who wished to attend. Then there were a few where a resident would fall out with another, others would take sides, the bad atmosphere and feelings would escalate and the only way this was resolved would be by someone moving out. This was OK in rented schemes, residents would find someone to 'swap with' from another scheme or even another social housing provider. Of course to resolve the situation would be more difficult with owner/occupiers.
However I must say I would never live in one!

I doubt that men would fancy living in a men only housing scheme, so why would women want it?I like men too SunnySusieand would not want this segregation at all.
Lumpy.. it is nothing to do with internalised misogyny but about having a balanced life with neighbours of both sexes.

Roses are red, I like your style. You go ahead, and enjoy as much baileys as you like.

I wouldn't consider single sex housing but a mixed community would be great. Always someone to watch out for you or for company (with or without a partner) but still your independence. Sounds ideal to me.

I feel the same as you, joannenewton. I wouldn't like single sex housing.

There are some almshouses near where I live. I think they're Victorian, but they've been well-maintained. It's not sheltered housing, but there is a a caretaker, who takes care of management issues and maintenance. I've put my name on the list, but I know that I'll have a long wait.

As far as I can work out, they're only for rent, but not just for people who are eligible for social housing. Children aren't allowed, but I understand any adult can apply, as long as they are of 'limited means', ie can't afford to buy. A 'board' decides who is eligible, which sounds a bit like the Victorian poor law boards, but it does mean they can be more flexible than the council. I understand quite a few divorcees live there. We'll see.

I certainly think that the government and councils needs to think more creatively about the needs of more elderly citizens.

I personally would LOVE to be able to afford to live in one of these schemes ....there are several lovely ones here in France, but sadly they are toooooooo expensive for us ...wish someone would come up with an affordable scheme of the same kind ! Even those for rent are around twice our actual monthly income !

A friend has just moved into New Ground. She is very happy

Is there a link ? Please ?

It's in the OP grannylyn. 'this in the news' is blue.

Not for me. I moved into a bungalow in a cul de sac eight years ago. When I moved in the church was my landlord, when the sheltered housing was built the church took over two of the bungalows for retired priests and or staff. They gave them back to the council a couple of years ago. In a cul de sac of 20 properties 19 who lived in them when I moved in are either dead or in homes .

It is OK to not feel the same for umpteen reasons, and for this not to be a criticism of other choices, surely. Each to their own. Just like I would hate to be on a constant rolling cruise, as the story that has hit the headlines and social media lately.

I saw it too and thought at first that it was a good idea, but having gone to all girls' schools from the age of 7 and spent much time in all female company as a young woman I think I would prefer a mix of neighbours.

internalised misogyny
Que?

I like the company of other women but not exclusively.

I read yesterday about people buying into a community setting however be warned. It seems to be in the small print that these properties on the demise of the owner will have racked up an enormous cost in selling on. It was said this money is needed for the ongoing maintenance and other costs associated with the scheme. Sounds good but is it all it makes out to be.