Members will focus on the delivery of ‘good quality’ supported housing for older people and working age adults
The government’s first supported housing advisory panel has published the objectives and strategies its 12 members are expected to follow.
Established in March 2026 under the Supported Housing Act 2023, the panel will support the government in ensuring that there is an adequate supply of “good quality” supported housing for all those who need it, particularly for older people and working age adult client groups.
The latter refers to those aged 18-64 who require supported housing due to a disability, long‑term condition, mental health need or other support need.
The newly published ‘terms of reference’ also state that members of the panel are expected to advise on the implementation of the act, including risks and effectiveness; provide intelligence on emerging sector issues; support policy development and produce an annual report summarising advice and key insights.
The panel will meet formally on a quarterly basis. Its work may include engaging with a range of stakeholders, including residents, providers, local authorities, investors and other advisory groups.
The panel will be chaired by social care expert David Pearson, who co-chaired the Social Care Institute for Excellence’s 2020 commission on the role of housing in the future of care and support.
Advisers also include Oona Goldsworthy, chief executive of Brunel Care; John Verge, chief executive of Golden Lane Housing and Charlotte Talbott, chief executive at homelessness charity Emmaus UK.
According to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, between 361,700 and 640,700 additional units of supported housing are needed by 2040 to meet overall demand (100,000 for working age people and between 261,700 and 540,700 for older people).
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