Supported living enables people with disabilities to live independently in their own homes with the support they need. Unlike residential care, supported living gives individuals choice and control over their lives while receiving personalised support.
What is Supported Living?
Supported living is a model of care that separates housing from support services. Individuals have their own tenancy or own their home, and receive support services tailored to their needs. This approach promotes independence, choice, and inclusion.
Key Principles
- Choice and Control: Individuals choose where they live and how they're supported
- Independence: People live in their own homes with their own tenancy
- Person-Centred: Support is tailored to individual needs and preferences
- Community Integration: Support to participate in community life
- Flexible Support: Support levels can change as needs evolve
Who Can Access Supported Living?
Supported living is designed for:
- People with Learning Disabilities: Adults who can live independently with appropriate support
- People with Physical Disabilities: Those who need accessible accommodation and support
- People with Autism: Individuals who benefit from structured support in their own homes
- People with Mental Health Needs: Those who need ongoing support to maintain independence
- Older People with Disabilities: Seniors who want to remain in their own homes
How Supported Living Works
Housing
- Individuals have their own tenancy or own their home
- Can be a flat, house, or shared accommodation
- Accommodation is adapted to meet individual needs
- Located in ordinary communities, not separate facilities
Support Services
Support is provided separately from housing and can include:
- Personal care and assistance
- Help with daily living tasks
- Support with managing money and bills
- Assistance with medication
- Support to access community activities
- Help with employment and education
- Emotional and mental health support
Benefits of Supported Living
Independence and Choice
- Live in your own home with your own tenancy
- Choose who provides your support
- Decide how you want to be supported
- Control your daily routine and lifestyle
- Build relationships and connections
Quality of Life
- Dignity and Respect: Treated as an individual with rights
- Community Inclusion: Supported to participate in community life
- Skills Development: Opportunities to learn and grow
- Relationships: Support to build and maintain relationships
- Employment: Help finding and keeping a job
Funding Supported Living
Housing Costs
- Housing Benefit: May cover rent costs
- Universal Credit: Housing element for accommodation
- Personal Budgets: Direct payments for support services
- Local Authority Funding: Through social care assessments
Support Costs
- Personal Budgets: Direct payments to arrange your own support
- Local Authority Funding: Through care assessments
- NHS Continuing Healthcare: For people with complex health needs
- Combined Funding: Mix of different funding sources
Finding a Supported Living Provider
Assessment Process
- Care Assessment: Your local authority will assess your care and support needs
- Housing Assessment: Assessment of your housing needs
- Support Planning: Develop a support plan that meets your needs
- Provider Matching: Match you with suitable supported living providers
- Viewing Properties: Visit potential homes
- Moving In: Support with the transition to your new home
Choosing the Right Provider
Consider:
- Location: Is it in an area you want to live?
- Support Quality: What do current residents say about the support?
- Staff: Are staff trained and experienced?
- Flexibility: Can support be adjusted as your needs change?
- Cost: Can you afford the accommodation and support?
- Reputation: What is the provider's track record?
Your Rights in Supported Living
Housing Rights
- Right to a secure tenancy
- Right to privacy in your own home
- Right to have visitors
- Right to make your own decisions
- Right to complain if things go wrong
Support Rights
- Right to be involved in planning your support
- Right to choose who provides your support
- Right to have your views and preferences respected
- Right to change your support provider
- Right to access advocacy services
Moving On
Supported living is designed to be long-term, but you can move if:
- Your needs change significantly
- You want to live in a different area
- You want to live with different people
- You want to try more independent living
- Your current arrangement isn't working
Your support worker will help you plan any moves and ensure continuity of support.
Browse Supported Living Providers
Find verified supported living providers who can help you live independently with the right support.
Image Gallery
External Resources
Government Resources
Regulatory Bodies
Support Organisations
Mencap - Supported Living
Information about supported living for people with learning disabilities
https://www.mencap.org.uk/advice-and-support/supported-living
Scope - Independent Living
Support and advice for disabled people living independently
https://www.scope.org.uk/advice-and-support/independent-living/
Citizens Advice - Social Care
Free advice on social care and support services
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/health/care-services/
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between supported living and residential care?
In supported living, you have your own tenancy and live in your own home with support provided separately. In residential care, you live in a care home where accommodation and care are provided together, and you don't have your own tenancy.
Who is eligible for supported living?
Supported living is available for adults with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, autism, mental health needs, or other disabilities who can live independently with appropriate support.
How do I apply for supported living?
Contact your local authority adult social care department for a care assessment. They will assess your needs and help you find suitable supported living arrangements.
Can I choose my support provider?
Yes, if you receive direct payments or a personal budget, you can choose who provides your support. Even with local authority-arranged support, your preferences should be considered.
What support is available in supported living?
Support can include personal care, help with daily tasks, medication management, budgeting, accessing community activities, employment support, and emotional support. Support is tailored to your individual needs.
How much does supported living cost?
Costs vary depending on location and support needs. Housing costs may be covered by Housing Benefit, and support costs are usually funded through local authority care assessments or personal budgets.
Can I work while in supported living?
Yes, many people in supported living work or study. Support staff can help you find employment, manage work-life balance, and access training opportunities.
What happens if my needs change?
Your support plan should be reviewed regularly, and support levels can be adjusted as your needs change. You can request a review at any time if your circumstances change.
Can I have visitors in supported living?
Yes, it's your own home, so you can have visitors whenever you want. There may be some practical considerations to discuss with your support provider.
How do I complain about my supported living service?
You can raise concerns with your support provider, your local authority, or use advocacy services. You also have the right to contact the Care Quality Commission (CQC) if you have concerns about care quality.