Extra Care Housing Scheme

Published: 11 December 2023
Last updated: 10 January 2024
Two older gay men with white hair selecting cards in card shop for Pride. Both looking at each other and smiling.

Developing the UK’s first purpose-built LGBTQ+ majority older persons housing scheme

Russell Road, Manchester’s LGBTQ+ Majority Extra Care scheme

Two older women in winter coats hugging each other tightly next to the canal, smiling at camera. Portrait.

LGBT Foundation, Great places Housing Group and Manchester City Council are developing the UK’s first purpose-built LGBTQ+ majority older persons housing scheme in Whalley Range, South Manchester.

The Russell Road scheme will be a flagship first-of-its-kind scheme. And the ambition is that it will serve as a model that other cities and communities can look to as they seek to create more inclusive and supportive environments for their older LGBTQ+ communities.

The details of the scheme will be developed with the input of the Russell Road Community Steering Group, building on the expertise, knowledge and experience of older LGBTQ+ people and local residents to design a ground-breaking scheme and Centre for Excellence.

For more information email adam.preston@lgbt.foundation

What is Extra Care housing?

Extra Care is independent living for people over 55 with the added reassurance of a care team based on site 24/7. Extra Care has additional communal facilities for the use of customers and the wider community for social activities and events.

Why do we need an LGBTQ+ Majority Extra Care scheme?

LGBTQ+ individuals are at greater risk of social isolation discrimination and poor health outcomes as they get older, and many may not have access to supportive networks of friends or family. The Russell Road Extra Care housing scheme is designed to address these challenges by providing a purpose-built inclusive environment where LGBTQ+ people can live independently, but with access to care and support services as needed.

The scheme aims to promote greater social connection reduce social isolation and improve the health and well-being of its residents.

Two gay older men, one east asian in grey hooddie and the other white in rainbow waistcoat, facing each other, talking.
Older woman in red leather jacket with sunglasses leaning towards and smiling brightly at camera. Portrait.

Where will the scheme be located?

The development will be on site of the former Spire Hospital on Russell Road, Whalley Range, close to the Carlton Club.

When will it be open and how can I register my interest?

The Russell Road scheme is still is in its development and design stages. Information about construction and building work will be shared with local residents throughout the process and information on the application process and allocations will be determined at a later date.

To receive updates on the scheme. You can sign up to our newsletter by emailing adam.preston@lgbt.foundation.

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