This type of accommodation is usually for older people and is :

• self contained
• residents live independently
• ‘some form of assistance is available at all times’
• the building where they live is ‘predominately occupied by, and promoted to, people who are of a defined age or vulnerability’*

It may have communal facilities, be staffed during office hours and include social alarm systems.

This type of housing allows residents to enjoy ‘independent living in self-contained accommodation’. It includes the following types of housing schemes:

• very sheltered or assisted living (managed on-site care and support)
• extra care (managed care and support 24 hour staffing)
• close care (linked to a care home)

Supported housing provides supported living for those who have a need and require care and support services. There is often more than one resident and can include houses for those with, for example, learning disabilities or a mental health diagnosis, sometimes together with physical disabilities.  It is designed for

• ‘vulnerable people with common characteristic
• living as part of a community with support that is normally, but not necessarily, provided on a 24 -hour basis’. 
• ‘includes housing for groups of people with learning or physical disabilities and mental health issues’*
• residents may live independently or as a single group

It does not include ‘hostel-type’ accommodation - eg for homeless people, ex-offenders and excludes sheltered and extra care housing. 

*_{Quotes from National Fire Chiefs Council Specialised Housing Guide - see below}