Independent living schemes

Our independent living schemes are for people who want to keep their independence, with the added security of independent living officers and assistive technology.

Our schemes have accommodation all under one roof with self-contained flats where you have the key to your own front door, and you can come and go as you please.

Each scheme has some shared facilities such as a communal lounge, kitchen, and laundry room.

If you have a disability or find living in your current home difficult a flat in an independent living scheme could make your life easier. Some schemes offer optional social activities to bring residents together and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

The benefits of independent living schemes: 

  • separate flats in one building with your own front door (some schemes have bungalows separate to the communal facilities)
  • a home set out on one level and lift access to upper floors
  • optional availability of lifeline alarm / call system (with an additional charge)
  • mobility scooter store at most schemes (dependent on availability)
  • communal lounge and kitchen to socialise and meet others
  • optional community / social activities
  • most schemes have Wi-Fi access in the communal lounge
  • district heating system
Elderly Man Talking
Available homes

Church Street Close, Thurnscoe

  • Two bedsits available with a bath only
  • Guest bedroom at the scheme for friends and family to visit
  • Communal garden and lounge
  • Weekly cost: £89.33 (£77.23 rent + £12.10 service charge)

Heather Court, Bolton upon Dearne

  • One bedroom first floor flat with a level access shower / wet room
  • Communal garden and activity room
  • Weekly cost: £104.37 (£91.57 rent + £12.80 service charge)

Hudson Haven, Wombwell

  • One bedsit available with a level access shower / wet room  
  • Communal lounge
  • Weekly cost: £94.13 (£82.03 rent + £12.10 service charge)

Woodhall Flats, Darfield

  • One bedroom first floor flat with a bath
  • Communal garden and activity room
  • Guest bedroom at the scheme for friends and family to visit
  • Weekly cost: £102.77 (£89.97 rent + £12.80 service charge)

Woodhall Flats, Darfield

  • One bedsit available with a level access shower / wet room
  • Communal garden and activity room
  • Guest bedroom at the scheme for friends and family to visit
  • Weekly cost: £90.13 (£78.03 rent + £12.10 service charge)
Independent Living Customer

How to apply

Applicants should be aged 60 and over although in some circumstances we’ll consider applicants aged 40 and over.

Independent living schemes are suitable for people with low level support needs because our independent living officers are unable to offer personal or medical care.

People with a history of the following may not be suitable for schemes with communal facilities:

  • anti-social behaviour
  • alcohol or substance misuse
  • offending
  • violence or sexual abuse
  • arson
  • problems sustaining or managing their accommodation

Call us on 01226 787878 for information about available homes in our independent living schemes.

Independent living officers

Each independent living scheme has an independent living officer, and you’ll be given their name and contact details at the start of your tenancy. You can usually contact them between Monday to Friday if you need help or advice. Independent living officers are responsible for the management of the building and health and safety in communal areas. They also help to arrange various social activities.

They only offer low level support and don’t provide personal or medical care. If you need more help with daily tasks contact Adult Social Care who will discuss the support services available to you while you’re in an independent living scheme.

You might also consider the extra care housing options in Barnsley. Extra care housing schemes are owned and managed by housing associations and provide a range of options.

Elderly Woman Talking

Telecare alarm

For an additional charge, you might want a telecare alarm. It's a pendant that you can wear on your wrist, around your neck, or just keep close to you. 

If you need help you can push the button on your pendant and this will put you through to Barnsley Council’s Independent Living at Home team who will be able to see your name, address, and medical details. When your alarm goes off, you'll get a phone call to check what's wrong and find out what support you need.

If they can’t hear you, or you don’t answer the call, the team will get in touch with your nominated contact and ask them to check on you. If they can't be contacted, they will come out to make sure you're safe. In urgent situations they will also call the emergency services on your behalf.

If a telecare alarm is something you may benefit from, please visit Barnsley Council’s website or phone them on 01226 775671 for more information.