<p><span>The Home Builders Federation and retirement housebuilders have welcomed a letter from care minister Helen Whately which praises the support retirement developer staff are giving to residents during the coronavirus pandemic.</span></p><p><span>HBF said that retirement housing schemes had proved to be “a good place to support people during this challenging time,” with few confirmed Covid-19 cases to date at the developments. Retirement schemes offer independent living alongside day-to-day personal care and support services.</span></p><p><span>In her letter, the MP Helen Whately wrote that retirement and extra care communities of all sizes “are playing a vital role in protecting the most vulnerable in our country”.</span></p><p><span>She added: “To ensure that all the people in your care remain safe, healthy, and comforted as our normal ways of life have been put on hold is a phenomenal achievement. It will be a joy to those in your care and to their families too.”</span></p><p><span>HBF cited examples of the help retirement housebuilders have given during the crisis, including McCarthy &amp; Stone’s 1,600-strong Services team offering care to 20,000 residents. Last week the retirement giant announced a Buddy scheme - featuring 500 of McStone’s staff - which provides a point of contact for supplies and support.</span></p><p><span>Meanwhile, Churchill Retirement Living has …