Supported accommodation
A settled place to build independence.
Supported accommodation for adults aged 18 and over who are ready to develop their independence. A welcoming home, combined with practical support to build confidence, everyday skills and readiness for the next step. A welcoming home, combined with practical support to build confidence and everyday skills.
A place to feel settled
Somewhere to feel comfortable and listened to.
Having a settled place to live is an important part of moving towards independence. We aim to create an environment where people can establish routines, build positive relationships and take an active role in decisions about their lives.
Everyone is encouraged to share their views, ask questions and tell us when something is not working for them.
- A safe, comfortable place to live
- Time to settle in at your own pace
- Staff who get to know you
- Clear house agreements
Everyday skills
Learning by doing.
Support is planned around what each person can already do and where they need guidance. Depending on their assessed needs and support plan, this may include:
- Planning meals, shopping and cooking
- Keeping their living space clean and organised
- Managing money and understanding household costs
- Routines for education, training or work
- Using public transport and attending appointments
- Understanding housing responsibilities
- Accessing local services and activities
- Staying safe online and recognising unsafe situations
Education and opportunities
Working towards realistic goals.
We support people to explore their interests and take next steps. This may involve help with education or training, preparing a CV, completing applications, attending interviews or exploring volunteering.
We work with the professionals involved in the person’s life to support agreed plans and remove barriers to taking part.
- Exploring education and training
- Help with job searches and applications
- Volunteering opportunities
- Setting goals that feel achievable
Wellbeing and relationships
Support through uncertainty.
Moving towards independence can bring uncertainty as well as opportunity. We listen to people’s concerns and help them access health and wellbeing services.
We encourage positive relationships and help people understand boundaries, recognise risks and ask for help when they need it. Support takes account of identity, culture, beliefs and communication preferences.
- Someone to talk to when things are hard
- Support with friendships and relationships
- Help to access health and wellbeing services
- Building confidence and resilience
Safeguarding and speaking up
Safety at the centre.
We work with local authorities and professionals to identify risks, respond to concerns and review support arrangements.
Everyone knows who they can speak to if they feel unsafe or unhappy. We explain how to raise a concern or complaint and support access to independent advocacy where appropriate.
- Clear safeguarding procedures
- Regular check-ins and reviews
- Working with the professionals involved
- Knowing how to speak up and be heard
Supported accommodation may suit adults who
- Are ready to build independence with support
- Are moving on from hospital, care or another service
- Need a settled home while they develop everyday skills
- Want help preparing for their own tenancy
We consider carefully
- The person’s readiness, needs and risks
- Whether the proposed home is suitable
- The needs of anyone they would live with
- Whether a different service would meet their needs better
Placements
From referral to moving in.
Supported accommodation is not right for every person. Each referral is considered individually, taking account of readiness, support needs, risks and the suitability of the home.
Referral and assessment
We discuss the person’s needs, the proposed location and availability with the local authority.
Matching
Where accommodation is shared, we consider the needs of the other people living there.
Introductions
Visits and introductions help the person know what to expect.
Settling and review
The support plan is reviewed as needs change, with a focus on longer-term goals and next accommodation.
For local authorities
Referrals and enquiries.
We welcome enquiries from local authorities, social workers and commissioning teams. Contact us to discuss the person’s needs, the proposed location and current availability.
We will explain the assessment process and how to share referral information securely.
Questions
Supported accommodation FAQs
Answers to the questions we are asked most often.
Who is supported accommodation for?
Adults aged 18 and over who need a settled home and practical support to build their independence. This may include people leaving care, people moving on from hospital or another service, and people who are not yet ready to live without support.
Is support available 24 hours a day?
The level of support depends on each person’s assessed needs. Some people need staff available throughout the day and night, while others need support at agreed times. We agree this before anyone moves in.
What does the support involve?
Support is based on each person’s plan. It may include cooking, budgeting, keeping their home, attending appointments, education, training or work, wellbeing and building positive relationships.
How long can someone stay?
There is no fixed length of stay. We review progress regularly with the person and the professionals involved, and plan the next step when they are ready, such as moving to their own tenancy.
Can I make a referral for myself?
Yes. Individuals and families can contact us directly. Most referrals come from social workers, care managers or placement teams, and we will usually work with them as part of the assessment.
How do I make a referral?
Use our referral form or call the team on 0333 301 0025. We will arrange a first conversation and explain the next steps.
Next steps
Talk to us about support
Call us on 0333 301 0025 or send us a message. Our team will talk you through the next steps.