Demand for accessible homes is growing, yet just 7% of the nation’s housing provides even basic accessibility features. This worrying accessible housing deficit is likely to reach a crisis point as the number of people with disability increases and more of us are living longer. Together we are calling for more action from government, local authorities and developers to ensure new homes are inclusively designed with effective planning for the current and future housing needs of disabled people. Greater understanding and recognition of the long-term financial and social value that inclusive housing can bring is crucial.
Accessible and easily adaptable housing can help cut the length of hospital stays, improve independent living and reduce adaptation costs. Inclusive homes benefit everyone, from older people, to people with mobility problems as well as families with young children. It’s time for housing policy to create an inclusive legacy.
Andrew Gibson Vice-chair, Habinteg
Terrie Alafat Chief executive, Chartered Institute for Housing
Caroline Abrahams Charity director, Age UK
Kate Henderson Chief executive, Town and Country Planning Association
Anna Dixon Chief executive, Centre for Ageing Better
Sue Adams Chief executive, Care and Repair England
David Sinclair Director, International Longevity Centre
Steve White Interim chief executive, Papworth Trust
Jeremy Porteus Managing director, Housing LIN
Malcolm Booth Chief executive, National Federation of Occupational Pensioners
Mike Duggan General secretary, Civil Service Pensioners’ Alliance
Steve Edwards Chief executive, National Association of Retired Police Officers
• Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com
• Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters
