Bidding has started this week on the second phase of a £120 million housing fund made available for affordable housing projects outside London under the Department of Health’s Care and Support Specialised Housing Fund (CASSH).
CASSH is delivered by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) to increase the supply of new affordable homes for the elderly, people with disabilities and those with mental health conditions, to help them live more independently, as well as building affordable homes for the private market.
Allocations under CASSH will be targeted to support local needs in a community, with priority given to those who have a mental health condition.
The Minister of State for Care and Support, Norman Lamb MP said:
“Well-designed and high-quality specialised housing is a vital part of improving the health and wellbeing of many people.
“Phase 2 of this fund will increase the range of housing options available – particularly for those living with mental health conditions and learning difficulties – allowing more people to live independently.”
The chief executive of the HCA, Andy Rose, added:
“Specialised housing is vital in helping older people and those with disabilities or mental health problems to benefit from independent living.
“It can help people to maintain good health and improve quality of life, while reducing costs in the health sector.
“The Department of Health has recognised the HCA’s expertise on housing delivery and local markets – and entrusted us with delivery of this important programme.”
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