The accommodation varies from bed-recess flats to 2 bedroom bungalows although the latter are in very short supply. Some schemes have communal facilities e.g. Lounges and Laundries and also have wardens who reside on the site. All the schemes are equipped with modern warden call equipment. Sheltered Housing is provided to help elderly people and people with disabilities retain their independence. Residents have their own dwelling and a sense of saftey and security is fostered to enable the residents to retain independent living.
Many schemes also have committees to organise social events and outings.
A Home Alarm is an electronic device that plugs into BT's telephone network. When it is activated it automatically dials to make contact with the outside world. They can be programmed to dial a relative or neighbour's telephone in order to raise the alarm. In the UK the units are nearly always programmed to telephone a Central Control Centre. The alarm can be activated with a small radio trigger that can be worn around the neck or as a brooch or watchband.