Stephen Ladyman

Ministers have announced plans to spend an extra £87million on extra care housing for the elderly.

The spending boost was announced by health minister Dr Stephen Ladyman on Wednesday.

An additional £29 million will be made available in the 2004/05 financial year, and £58 million will follow in 2005/06.

The government aims to increase the number of places available, in a partnership between the Department of Health and the Housing Corporation, supported by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

Extra care housing includes the provision of support such as out of hours services and support to older people, as well as communal areas which can include GP surgeries and exercise facilities.

"We need to drive forward the development of real choice for older people. Not just theoretical choice but practical choice," said Dr Ladyman.

"The government is determined that older people will choose the type of care that suits them rather than having a choice forced on them by Whitehall or the local council.

"Extra care housing has a role to play in helping to make sure that older people get the right care in the right place at the right time. It will not give us all the answers and it won't be right for everyone. It will be part of a range of services including good quality residential care, flexible home care services and community living options.

"Many older people want to stay in their own home, while others will want specialist forms of housing that offer complete security and an environment where care and support can be delivered effectively. Our challenge is to develop policies and services that allow older people to choose the housing that is right for them."