Retirement Communities celebrated through launch of new sector trade association

The retirement community model has been given both a new trade association and a charter to maintain and drive up standards within the sector.

The launch of the Associated Retirement Community Operators (ARCO) at the House of Lords saw retirement community operators, residents and staff meeting with MPs, Peers and industry leaders.

ARCO Chairman, Jon Gooding said: “We, as an Association, will do our part and strive to promote and develop the sector, whilst ensuring that people are aware of the ways in which the retirement community sector can meet their lifestyle, health and social care needs.

“However, to achieve real growth in this sector we call on Government in Westminster, Whitehall and the town hall to encourage meaningful integration of housing and care provision."

The creation of the ARCO will increase the volume of expertise within the sector and raise awareness of the retirement community model between older people, policy makers and stakeholders.

Attending the launch event were 140 guests, which saw three main speakers champion the importance that retirement communities place on helping older people to retain their independence as much and for as long as possible.

Retirement communities include: retirement villages, extra care housing, housing with care, assisted living, close care apartments and independent living.

Independent care homes aim to serve a new generation of older people who will expect more from their retirement, with a predicted 3.3m people over the age of 85 in the UK by 2033. They aim to actively strive to enhance the quality of life of residents with care and support needs, and help residents to socialise and interact regularly with other people within the community.

Mr Gooding said: “We believe that combining independent housing with 24/7 care in a community setting presents a credible solution for many older people.

The provision of 24 hour care in retirement communities will allow residents to stay in their own home and out of hospital for as long as possible

Mr Gooding continued: “The Association has formed at a critical juncture in the housing and social care debate. We are all grappling with the challenge of how we provide high quality care and housing to an ageing population in a time of economic uncertainty and restraint, coupled with rising expectations and lifestyle aspirations. I strongly believe that ARCO’s members represent the solution, at least in part.

“The stage is set for the Government to act and empower older people to prepare for and make the right move at the right time; securing access to the support they need whilst maintaining their valued independence and the right to their own front door.”