Honor Barratt, CEO, Birchgrove said:

“Angela Rayner’s plans for how Labour intends to increase housebuilding are laudable. However, we believe part of the solution to the housing crisis is making better use of the homes we already have.

“There has been a lot of focus on the need for affordable homes in Labour’s announcements so far. But this country has a similarly pressing issue with the lack of housing suitable for seniors.

“We note that today’s announcement mentions support for mixed use sites that comprise a variety of ownership and rental tenures. We hope senior living will be a significant part of this mix.

“Senior housing needs to be moved up the political agenda as it’s a key part of the solution to this country’s housing crisis. Two thirds of over-65s have at least two empty spare bedrooms in their home, which equates to nine million empty bedrooms every night.

“A significant number of these people would move to smaller properties if more suitable senior living was widely available. This would free up many larger properties and have a knock-on effect on the entire housing market.”

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