Guardian Letter to the editor, 7 July 2016:

The need for more accessible homes across the UK has never been more acute. Despite 11.6 million disabled people in Britain, and a rapidly ageing demographic, only 6% of homes provide even basic accessibility features, such as wider entrances, entry-level WC and sufficient circulation space. We join together to call on the government, local councils and developers to recognise the long-term financial and social value of accessible homes and to increase the number that are built.

Accessible housing can cut the cost of future housing adaptations, shorten the length of hospital stays and avoids costly moves to specialist housing with care settings. Accessible homes also have significant social value as they help disabled people live independently with choice and control over their everyday lives. Inclusive homes benefit all sections of society from older people, to those with mobility problems, as well as young families. Together, we believe that more good quality accessible homes can deliver benefits across the UK.

Paul Gamble Chief executive, Habinteg
Caroline Abrahams Charity director, Age UK
David Orr Chief executive, National Housing Federation
Terrie Alafat CBE Chief executive, Chartered Institute of Housing
Dr Hugh Ellis Interim chief executive, Town and Country Planning Association
Janet Morrison Chief executive, Independent Age
David Sinclair Director, International Longevity Centre
Liz Sayce Chief executive, Disability Rights UK
Vicky McDermott Chief executive, Papworth Trust
Sue Adams Chief executive, Care & Repair England
Mike Duggan General secretary, Civil Service Pensioners’ Alliance
Malcolm Booth Chief executive, National Federation of Occupational Pensioners
Steve Edwards Chief executive, National Association of Retired Police Officers
Jeremy Porteus Director, Housing LIN
Brian Carlin Chief executive, Aspire