by Aemulator AdminCrisis In Supported Housing
A recent report by the National Housing Federation (NHF) highlights a significant crisis in supported housing, revealing that in the 2023/24 period, mental health patients in England spent a total of 109,029 days—approximately 300 years—stuck in hospitals despite being ready for discharge. This situation is primarily due to a severe shortage of supported housing options, which are essential for facilitating patients’ transition back into the community.
The lack of supported housing accounted for 20% of all delayed discharges from mental health hospitals and nearly 73% of all housing-related discharge delays during this period. These delays have had a substantial financial impact, costing the NHS an estimated £71 million in the past year alone.
The shortage of supported housing has led to a troubling increase in the number of patients unable to be discharged from general hospitals for housing-related reasons. Since 2021, this number has more than tripled, rising from 49 to 153 patients per week.
Supported housing provides individuals with the necessary support, supervision, and care to live independently. However, the sector is facing a financial crisis due to cuts in council contracts and rising operational costs. An NHF survey found that one in three (32%) supported housing providers in England had to close schemes in the past year because of financial pressures. This decline in supported housing availability not only affects individuals in need but also places additional strain on public services like the NHS.
To address this crisis, the NHF is calling on the government to allocate at least £1.6 billion annually for housing-related support as part of a long-term housing strategy. This investment aims to secure the future of supported housing and ensure that individuals with support needs can live independently in safe and affordable homes.
The shortage of supported housing not only delays patient discharges but also contributes to increased pressure on NHS resources and negatively impacts the well-being of individuals who are unable to transition out of hospital settings. Addressing this issue is crucial for improving health outcomes and ensuring the sustainability of healthcare services.
