Currently, only 0.7 % of people aged over 65 in the UK live in retirement villages or retirement housing – compared to 7% in Australia.
But with large international investment funds financing a number of new entrants and housing affordability a key issue in the UK, One Fell Swoop Partner and Managing Director Christopher Rooke says the retirement living and aged care consultancy saw an opportunity to open an office.
Headed by Carrie Edwards, former senior sales and marketing strategist at both IRT and Warrigal (Partner & Chief Executive UK), they have already seen a wide uptake of their services from existing operators and new entrants, particularly regarding villages with in-home care.
“Interestingly OFS advice is also being sought on the exit fees given that few villages in the UK levy such a fee; however, in light of a recent ruling by the Law Commission, many operators are considering their introduction,” Mr Rooke said.
One Fell Swoop has also joined the UK peak body ARCO (Associated Retirement Community Operators) and are working with them, recently presenting to government officials at a round table lunch at the House of Lords hosted by Baroness Sally Greengross OBE.
And it’s not just UK operators that are interested in their services. This week, Ms Edwards and Mr Rooke will head to Europe to consult on the development of a seaside retirement community.
