Intergenerational housing scheme gives students cheaper rent in exchange for befriending older neighbours

Phoenix Community Housing’s Melfield Gardens in Lewisham is an affordable development of 30 independent-living homes for people aged 55 and over, but it also includes two four-bedroom homes for students from nearby Goldsmiths (part of the University of London). These are offered at a reduced rent based on a “good neighbour” agreement whereby students commit to a small number of hours each month providing support and company to the older residents.

This approach to shared living is believed to be the first of its kind to be delivered by a housing association in the UK. The aim is to strengthen the sense of community among residents and reduce loneliness for all by bringing the different generations together.

Another aim of the development is to enable older local residents in larger Phoenix properties to downsize, releasing their larger homes for families living in overcrowded accommodation, thus helping to meet housing needs across the housing association’s stock.

The two housing blocks that make up the scheme are Passive-house certified, and residents have access to a shared communal lounge and kitchen. Homes for older residents follow a flexible “one bedroom plus” model that incorporates an additional study space/hobby room that can form part of the main living space or remain separate, as each resident wishes. This extra room can also be used as temporary accommodation for a carer or visiting relative, giving residents flexibility to adapt their homes as their needs change, in line with Housing our Ageing Population Panel for Innovation (HAPPI) principles. There are also four wheelchair-accessible homes at ground level.

Irene Craik, director at Levitt Bernstein, states, “We are already seeing the huge benefits of bringing generations together and supporting neighbourly connections.”