New housing options service for older people
A new telephone service is now available in Warwickshire to help older people with their housing options.
FirstStop Warwickshire is an independent service providing information about the different housing and care options available when it comes to later life. This includes advising people who may need some extra support to remain in their present home, and to those who wish to move home and need to know the options available to them.
The service, which is open to older people living in Warwickshire, their families and carers, as well as professionals, is being provided by the national organisation FirstStop, in partnership with Warwickshire County Council and the county’s five District and Borough Councils.
You can contact FirstStop Warwickshire by calling the telephone line 0800 377 7070. Calls are free from a landline but calls from mobile telephones may be charged. FirstStop also offer a call back service.
Kim Harlock, Head of Strategic Commissioning for Warwickshire County Council’s Adult Services, said: "We want to enable older people to maintain their independence and live comfortably at home. But in order to do so, it is vital that older people are aware of the full range of choices available.
"Whether an older person needs to make some changes around their existing home, or they are considering a change of accommodation in the future, the FirstStop Warwickshire service aims to help. "
In the Summer of 2010 the service will be expanded to offer a local visiting housing options service, alongside the telephone service, for people who would benefit from face to face contact. This service will also provide practical help to people who wish to move home but need some support to do so.
A ‘FirstStop Warwickshire’ guide has also been produced which gives an introduction to housing options and services available in the county as well as a list of helpful organisation and points to think about before deciding what is the best option for someone.
The First Stop Warwickshire service is supported financially by the Department of Communities and Local Government as part of a two year national pilot.
For further information or to request a copy of the ‘FirstStop Warwickshire’ guide please click on the website http://www.firststopadvice.org.uk or contact the telephone line on 0800 377 7070.