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Housing scheme for older LGBT people planned for Manchester
A location has been chosen for a new Manchester extra care development for older LGBT people, the council confirmed on Wednesday.
Housing scheme for older LGBT people planned for Manchester #ukhousingFollowing planning approvals, Russell Road in Whalley Range is set to offer 77 extra care properties – independent living homes for older people with on-site care services – focusing on the needs of older LGBT people.
The properties will be open to anybody over 55, with half for sale and half at affordable rent.
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Bev Craig, issues lead member for LGBT women at Manchester City Council, said: “For decades Manchester has been the champion of the LGBT community and it is with a huge amount of pride that we are able to continue this commitment with the UK’s first LGBT extra care scheme.
“This particular scheme has a focus on LGBT people to meet specific care needs and to offer an understanding and open space where the community can be sure they will not face discrimination or prejudice for their sexuality or gender identity.”
More than 7,000 Mancunians over 50 identify as LGBT, and council-commissioned research indicated higher levels of loneliness and isolation among older LGBT people.
Sally Carr, operational director of Manchester-based LGBT organisation the Proud Trust, said: “For many LGBT+ people growing old is a real concern. It can be a time where many feel they have no choice but to go back into the closet.
“We warmly welcome the extra care scheme and see it as a vital lifeline in a society that still has a long way to go.”
The scheme is part of a wider plan to deliver almost 500 extra care homes in Manchester.
A demolition application for the former hospital on the site will be submitted next month and the full planning application next year.
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