Independent living schemes
Our independent living schemes are for people who want to keep their independence, with the added security of independent living officers and assistive technology.
The schemes offer self-contained flats and bungalows where you have the key to your own front door, and you can come and go as you please.
Some of the schemes have accommodation all under one roof and others consist of bungalows with a community centre nearby. Each scheme has some shared facilities such as a communal lounge, kitchen, and laundry room.
If you have a disability or find living in your current home difficult, a flat or bungalow in an independent living scheme could make your life easier. We offer a range of social activities to bring residents together and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
The benefits of independent living schemes:
- Separate flats in one building with your own front door (some schemes have bungalows separate to the communal facilities)
- A home set out on one level and lift access to upper floors
- Availability of lifeline alarm / call system
- Mobility scooter store at most schemes
- Most schemes have a guest bedroom for family and friends to visit
- Communal lounge and kitchen to socialise and meet others
- Community / social activities
- Most schemes have Wi-Fi access in the communal lounge
- District heating
How to apply
Applicants should be aged 60 and over although in some circumstances we’ll consider applicants aged 40 and over.
Independent living schemes are suitable for people with low level support needs because our independent living officers are unable to offer personal or medical care.
People with a history of the following may not be suitable for schemes with communal facilities:
- Anti-social behaviour
- Alcohol or substance misuse
- Offending
- Violence or sexual abuse
- Arson
- Problems sustaining or managing their accommodation
Call us on 01226 787878 for information about available homes in our independent living schemes.
Independent living officers
Each independent living scheme has an independent living officer, and you’ll be given their name and contact details at the start of your tenancy. You can usually contact them between Monday to Friday if you need help or advice. Independent living officers are responsible for the management of the building and health and safety in communal areas. They also help to arrange various social activities.
They only offer low level support and don’t provide personal or medical care. If you need more help with daily tasks contact Adult Social Care who will discuss the support services available to you while you’re in an independent living scheme.
You might also consider the extra care housing options in Barnsley. Extra care housing schemes are owned and managed by housing associations and provide a range of options.
Lifeline alarm
A lifeline alarm is an emergency alarm that’s fitted in your home and plugged into your telephone. In an emergency or if you need help, simply press the button on a pendant that’s worn around your neck. This activates the alarm unit and rings Barnsley Council’s Independent Living at Home team who’ll be able to see your name, address, and medical details.
Their trained staff will talk to you through how to use the alarm unit and call a relative, doctor or the emergency services if needed. Don’t worry about being too far away to hear it or speak as Independent Living at Home Call will send help.
If a lifeline alarm is something you may benefit from, we can tell you how this can be installed.
Emergency alarm
An emergency alarm is specially for the elderly, vulnerable or anyone who feels they might benefit from one in their home, particularly those who live alone. For example, it can be used if you are feeling ill, have had a fall or are feeling anxious.
A monitoring and rental charge will need to be paid and Independent Living at Home will provide details of these. You would need a ‘push in’ telephone socket and a 13-amp power socket nearby.
Maintenance and repairs are included in the charge. However, telephone calls and quarterly rental charges aren’t covered and you would continue to pay your own phone bill.
Visit Barnsley Council’s website or call their team on 01226 775671 for more information.