Councillor John McDonagh has called on the City Council to undertake an urgent review of what he has described as an “upstairs–downstairs” approach to the Housing Aid for Older People Scheme, following concerns that have come to light in recent weeks.
The scheme, which supports people over the age of 66, has in previous years allowed for the replacement of windows and doors throughout a home. However, in recent weeks it has become apparent that a more limited approach is now being applied, with works restricted to partial upgrades such as replacing upstairs windows while leaving older ground floor windows in place, Councillor McDonagh said.
“This approach simply doesn’t make sense. It is both impractical and unfair to expect older homeowners to proceed with works that may leave a clear mismatch between upper and lower floors, particularly where many of the retained windows are over 30 years old.”
Reflecting concerns raised locally, he added: “One resident put it to me that the new upstairs windows would end up ‘laughing at the downstairs ones’—and while that may be said lightly, it captures the real concern about the inconsistency this approach creates.”
He also noted that there are concerns regarding the long-term viability of older windows, with indications that sourcing parts for repair or servicing may be increasingly difficult.“It is important that people are made fully aware of how the scheme is now being applied before they submit an application.
“Many applicants may still be working on the understanding of previous years, and clarity is essential to ensure fairness,” he said, adding that he is now calling on the council to restore a consistent, whole-house approach under the scheme and to provide clear and transparent guidance to all applicants.
“We need a system that is practical, consistent, and fair for older people,” he said.
