At the Housing LIN conference in Newcastle last week, our CEO Katy Saunders launched the SHAPE Exchange – a 5-year programme led by Housing LIN and funded by the Vivensa Foundation.
It will co-create age-friendly homes and places across the UK by bringing together partners from housing, health and social care, alongside older people and community organisations. The programme aligns with national priorities including the Older People’s Housing Taskforce, the NHS Neighbourhood Health Guidelines, and adult social care transformation.
Responding to a challenge
The SHAPE (Suitable Housing for our Ageing Population Evidence) Exchange responds directly to what older people tell us they want. New national research by IPSOS and Housing LIN shows that most people aged 50+ wish to stay in their own homes with the right adaptations and support, while others seek better mainstream housing options. Current housing supply, affordability and design standards do not consistently meet these aspirations.
The aim of the SHAPE Exchange is to inspire innovation and accelerate local delivery. It is built around four pillars:
- Resources and evidence: A suite of practical tools and guidance.
- Leadership development: Regional leadership support aligned with Housing LIN’s existing programmes.
- SHAPE Exchange Labs: Real-world innovation testbeds co-designed with local partners.
- Advisory and governance: Expert oversight ensuring credibility and impact.
The SHAPE Exchange Advisory group
The SHAPE Exchange Advisory Group brings together senior leaders from housing, health and social care. And it is chaired by our Trustee, Rose Gilroy, who is Professor of Ageing, Planning and Policy at Newcastle University. The group will provide strategic guidance and expert input to the programme.
Get involved
Are you a practitioner, policymaker, community organisation or researcher? And are you interested in finding out about the many ways to get involved with the SHAPE Exchange? Visit this page for more information and to stay in touch.
