Fife Council has demonstrated its commitment to ensuring that people have access to safe, supportive housing as they age through its ongoing initiatives and forward-thinking plans, including the opening of a new Independent Living Advice Hub in Kirkcaldy, as well as the increased use of technology to support independent living.

On Friday 20 September from 1.00pm – 3.00pm, the Independent Living Advice Hub, located at 255-257 High Street, Kirkcaldy will officially open its doors. The Hub offers a welcoming space where local residents can access services that promote independent living, including advice on home adaptations, safety, and support for those with physical, mental, and sensory impairments and more.

This initiative is a joint effort between Fife Council’s Housing Services, Fife Health & Social Care Partnership, and various other organisations. Together, they are making it easier for people to access the services they need to live independently.

The council is also making strides in using technology to help people manage their homes and stay independent. Testing Environmental sensors, for example, can support tenants monitor the environmental condition of their home and help reduce issues like dampness and condensation. Technology Enabled Care (TEC) is another key focus, with plans to expand its use to support vulnerable people at home, which could help prevent homelessness or reduce reliance on the healthcare system.

Councillor Judy Hamilton, spokesperson for Housing and Building Services, said: “Scottish Housing Day is an opportunity to recognise the importance of housing in helping people live well, particularly as they grow older. Fife Council is proud to be at the forefront of efforts to improve housing and support services for all. Through initiatives like the Independent Living Advice Hub and the innovative use of technology, we are empowering people to live independently for longer, with the support they need close at hand.”

The council’s Housing Plus project continues to develop solutions, including testing environmental sensors, piloting Amazon Alexa devices to assist with wellbeing, and expanding Extra Care and Supported Housing. Other initiatives, like the Technology Lending Library and Smart Life in Fife, aim to improve wellbeing and independence for service users, especially in Older Persons Housing.

To meet new needs for housing as the population grows older, Scottish Borders Council will use a variety of strategies, for example delivering adaptations in existing homes to improve accessibility, installing technology enabled care and helping people to find suitable homes closer to support networks and/or care services.

While this will involve significant focus to ensure the council is prepared for the future, considerable strides are already taking place within this area with plans to develop further care housing in the Borders, providing affordable housing options for residents aged 55 or over.

These include flexible and responsive services to enable older people to maintain their independence and stay where they live if their care needs change, accommodating unique needs, lifestyles and personal preferences for living.

The Local Housing Strategy has already been set and seeks to ensure that “More people are supported to live independently in their own homes”.

To achieve the Local Housing Strategy, SBC have several targets including:

• 20 wheelchair accessible homes per year, 15 being provided by our Registered Social Landlords.
• Commitments to deliver 300 new build houses suitable for older people.
• Invest in telecare/telehealth for over 800 households over a 10-year period.

Councillor Carol Hamilton, executive member for Housing and Culture, said: “I am excited that we are recognising how important homes are in meeting people’s needs at every stage of life.

“Everyone, regardless of age or ability, deserves a home that fits their needs, and we’re dedicated to working with partners to ensure everyone has access to suitable housing.”