Eligibility Criteria
Tenants eligible for the scheme will be residents who:
 • are deemed to have Ordinary Residence in Camden as defined by the Care Act 2014
 • have been assessed as having an eligible support need under the Care Act;
 • have capacity to independently manage a tenancy agreement or have someone legally appointed to sign the tenancy on their behalf  Further information and guidance on tenancies can be found on the tenancies page.
 

In line with Camden’s Housing Allocation Scheme, a resident’s savings, capital and assets will be taken into account when assessing eligibility for Extra Care housing. Individuals who are not eligible for Housing Benefit will be responsible for paying the full rental costs.

Self‑funders, including residents who own their own home, can apply for Extra Care housing, provided they are ordinarily resident in Camden.

Tenancy Responsibilities

Residents are required to meet all obligations set out in their tenancy agreement, including the payment of rent, service charges, and household bills.

Immigration Status and Eligibility

Residents who have leave to remain in the UK are eligible for an Extra Care tenancy for the duration of their lawful residence. Individuals who have no recourse to public funds (NRPF) are not eligible for Extra Care housing.

Extra Care Referral and Approval Process

1. Care and Support Plan Preparation
   The practitioner should ensure that an accurate and up‑to‑date care and support plan is prepared for discussion with their line manager. This should include all relevant documentation and a clear consideration of the resident’s eligibility for Extra Care as outlined above. Comprehensive and recent information is essential to support the resident’s acceptance into an Extra Care setting that can appropriately meet their needs and reduce the likelihood of future placement difficulties.
   
   
2. Recording the Rationale for Extra Care
   The practitioner should include a proportionate summary of the individual’s circumstances and the rationale for the Extra Care application within the Mosaic case notes and in the assessment documentation (Conv3).
   
   
3. Presentation to the Quality Assurance Panel (QAP)
   Once the application is complete, the practitioner must present the case to the Quality Assurance Panel (QAP). The panel may make a decision at the meeting or request further information and provide advice on next steps.
   
   
4. Booking a Presentation Slot
   Practitioners must book a presentation slot through the Team Clerks. Cases cannot be presented on the same day they are submitted, except in exceptional or emergency circumstances. In such situations, practitioners should discuss the case with their line manager as soon as the issue arises and seek Out‑of‑Panel Agreement.
   
   
5. Post‑QAP Approval
   Once a case has been approved by QAP, a follow‑up call will be arranged with the Extra Care Development Officer ([email protected]). This call will confirm current vacancies and identify which scheme is best placed to meet the resident’s needs. Coordinating placements in this way ensures fair access to vacancies and prevents residents feeling they are competing for the same flat.
   
   
6. Referral Submission
   The practitioner should send a task through Mosaic to the Placement and Purchasing Team, confirming the resident’s preferred Extra Care scheme. Referrals are made to one scheme at a time to ensure a fair and consistent process for all applicants. If the practitioner needs to confirm whether Extra Care is an appropriate option for the resident, they should contact the Extra Care Development Officer, who can advise on suitability before any referral is submitted. If the practitioner needs to establish whether there is scope for the resident to be considered within an Extra Care setting, this enquiry should be directed to the Extra Care Development Officer, who will support with such request.(In situations where a single referral is required to be sent to all schemes).

The Extra Care Scheme Managers are aiming to provide a response within one week. This should include either arranging an assessment or supplying written feedback within the same timeframe.

Note: Although QAP approval confirms eligibility, individual schemes may still decline a referral. Practitioners should keep residents informed throughout the process and help them manage their expectations.

Where the resident is accepted:

• The Extra Care Development Officer provides information and guidance to support preparation for tenancy sign‑up.
• Arrangements begin for the resident’s move‑into the scheme.

Where the resident is declined: 

• Feedback is provided by the Extra Care Scheme Manager for review by the practitioner and the Extra Care Development Officer.
• Additional information may be requested at this stage.
  The resident may be considered for an alternative scheme, where appropriate.

Where the resident is declined by all available Extra Care schemes:

• The practitioner and their line manager will be informed of the outcome.
• Alternative options must be explored, such as care at home, residential care, or other suitable support pathways.

For further information about any of the above guidance, please feel free to contact [email protected] for further details