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We offer a range of independent living schemes for people aged 60 and over. In some cases, we may accept applicants aged 55+ depending on support needs.
This type of accommodation may suit you if you want to remain independent in a smaller, easier‑to‑manage home, but like the reassurance of support in an emergency.
What independent living offers
Independent living schemes provide purpose‑built homes designed to help make life easier as you get older. You will have support on hand from an independent living team should you need it.
We have a range of accommodation, including flats, studio apartments and some bungalows and each property has:
its own front door
private living space, a bedroom, bathroom and kitchen
Many of our schemes also include:
communal facilities such as a laundry room, lounge and shared kitchen
safety features including door‑entry systems
emergency alarm cords connected to a 24/7 control centre
Is it for you?
Unlike an old people's home, independent living allows you to live independently while offering housing‑related support when needed. You keep the same responsibilities and freedom you’ve always had.
It’s designed for people who are generally active and independent, rather than those seeking personal care. Visiting staff check in regularly to ensure everything is okay, offering support without intruding on your privacy.
Extra care housing
Extra care housing is provided by registered providers and is not advertised via Kent Homechoice. It provides homes for older people who need access to additional support and social care services.
Residents live in their own flat or bungalow, with on‑site staff available up to 24 hours a day. It provides more support than independent living schemes while allowing greater independence than a care home.
Placements are decided by a specialist panel consisting of representatives from the council, social services and the housing provider. Allocations are based on the applicant’s assessed care and support needs.
If you wish to be considered for an extra care housing scheme you can contact the assessment referral management services at Kent County Council on 03000 416161 and ask for an assessment for extra care accommodation.
Register for independent living
You can register for independent living and extra care housing through Kent Homechoice. You will need to complete a pre-assessment to check you qualify and you will then be assigned a place on the housing register.
When you have moved in, your manager will complete an independent living plan with you. This will identify any support requirements you may have, and put you in touch with support organisations that may be required.
Your manager will ask for your doctor’s name and that of your next of kin. If you are taken ill or your support needs change, we will update your independent living plan to make sure any changes are made.
We welcome prospective new residents, show them around and explain how the housing works
We help tenants with housing matters ranging from signing tenancy agreements, helping complete any benefit application forms and signposting them to external organisations for extra support
We complete independent living support plans for new residents and make sure every resident's needs are regularly reviewed and updated
We check fire alarms and emergency pull cords on a regular basis, reporting any faults
We make regular calls to tenants either via our call system or through a face to face visit
We contact next of kin or appointed persons when tenants do not respond or who are unwell, contacting GPs, family or care managers where necessary
We advise of any extra benefits that residents may be entitled to
We provide general advice to help tenants remain independent in their own home.
Our team manages several schemes in the area and ensures they visit and contact residents during a scheduled weekly session.
The emergency alarm system is linked to a central communications centre called Lifeline. When needed, you can request help in an emergency and the staff at Lifeline will be able to contact a relative, a doctor or an emergency service as you require.
If your home has become unsuitable for your needs, you can move home via mutual exchange or applying on the housing waiting list.
If you have a disability, we may be able to provide certain adaptations to help you remain independent in your home, such as grab rails, a wet room or ramps.
Most schemes have a communal lounge where residents can meet for coffee and other social activities. The activities vary and are generally organised by tenants living within the schemes.
If the property is suitable for a small pet such as a small dog or a cat then you should be able to bring your pet with you.
However we do ask that you discuss this with your independent living manager as it may depend on the number of pets already living in the scheme.
Some schemes have a guestroom which can be hired at a reasonable cost for a friend or family member to use. You will need to check availability and costs with the independent living manager.
Most schemes have a car park for you to use and some may also have mobility scooter parking and charging facilities.
It's important to know that some schemes do not have any space to store mobility scooters so please discuss your personal needs with your scheme manager so you are fully aware of what is available.
We have a local group called Dover District Tenants' Consultative Group (DDTCG) who meet regularly with us to oversee and discuss ways to improve the housing service.
Just like a tenant living in any council home, we want you to enjoy your home and we expect you to live by the terms of the tenancy agreement and any rules in individual schemes.
You can choose to be involved or take part in things that happen locally in your scheme - it's up to you and what you want to do. Every resident is encouraged to have a say in how the schemes are run and regular meetings are held for you to join in and take part in discussions.
Personal alarms help vulnerable people stay independent at home. The alarm is a small wearable device connected to your phone line. If you fall or feel unwell and can’t reach a phone, you simply press the button to speak to a 24/7 operator who can arrange help. This support can be lifesaving in an emergency.
You can also request regular reassurance calls, where an operator rings you at an agreed time to check you're okay.
Although many older people use personal alarms, they can help anyone, including:
people living alone
people with limited mobility or disabilities
those prone to falls
anyone with unpredictable health conditions
Most alarms work through a landline, but GSM units using a mobile SIM are also available. Services usually include a setup cost and a low monthly fee for the peace of mind they provide.
We do not recommend one provider, but we do encourage you to compare options and choose the service that suits you best.
It is important to remember that fires in our sheltered housing/independent living schemes are rare.
Make sure you know the fire safety procedures and evacuation plans for your specific property, and contact your independent living manager if you need further information and advice.
You will have a smoke alarm in your flat, make sure you test it regularly.
