Supported housing helps more than half a million people to live independently in their communities. It provides a vital service to the people in our society who need the most support, from survivors of domestic abuse to young people leaving care. Research commissioned by the National Housing Federation in 2024 (performed by Altair Ltd) showed a clear need for more supported housing, with demand significantly outstripping supply – a trend that is predicted to continue to at least 2040.
Without a long-term plan for housing, thousands of people could go without the support they need, costing the public purse and leaving people who could live independently with support facing long stays in residential or institutional care, or at risk of homelessness.
As of 2023, there are an estimated 509,873 supported homes owned by registered providers of social housing in England. Most supported housing is for older people. In 2023, for social landlords in England, 71% of homes were for older people.
How much supported housing will we need by 2040?
The findings show that demand for supported housing will grow significantly in the years ahead. With a rising and ageing population, we need to make sure everyone in our communities has a safe place to call home.
Looking at projections based on current supported housing homes and population rise, research shows:
- We will need 167,329 more homes by 2040. This is a 33% increase, from 509,873 in 2023 to 677,202 in 2040.
- Around 1/4 homes will need to be tailored for working aged adults and 3/4 for older people.
- Long-term supported and older people’s housing will be vital. We will need 20-22% of homes to be short-term and help people in crisis, and we will need 78-80% of homes to be long-term and provide a secure home for those who need it.
- A large ‘hidden need’ with those in need not getting support, such as older people who need help with daily living and numbers of people with substance misuse issues who are not in treatment – potentially 2.42million people in 2020-2021.
In reality, the demand may be much higher. The supply of supported housing has not kept pace with the increasing population of England, and we may be short of at least 50,000 homes. When we look at projected demand, as many as 1.7 million people may need supported housing in 2040.
