What is supported living?

With supported living, someone with autism, a learning disability, physical support requirements or other complex care needs can remain as independent as possible, and ideally increase their independence, in their own home, with emotional and practical help always on hand.

Supported living can be provided for those who live alone, or in shared accommodation with others with similar needs, but people will have individual tenancies either way, typically provided via a specialist landlord. In a shared-accommodation setting, there are communal spaces and everyone contributes to bills and maintenance of the property. There may be specialist equipment or adaptations to the building.

It’s a great round-the-clock alternative to a residential care setting, although the care provided is of the same standard and quality. At the same time, those living in this scenario have a high level of control over their own environment. (Equally, and importantly, families have the same peace of mind as they would if a loved one was in a residential home.)

A key characteristic of this kind of care is that the support offered is flexible, and adapted to suit individual requirements, whether someone wants to learn new skills, or pursue volunteering or employment opportunities.

Eligibility for this kind of care depends on the local authority and may include being over 18, qualifying under the Care Act 2014, and having a care and support need. 

What are the benefits?

Supported living offers people a number of advantages, including:

    • A higher degree of independence than found in other living scenarios, along with greater choice and more control over their lives.

    • The chance to learn new skills, either for independent living or anything else, so that people are helped to reach their full potential.

    • A supported living environment is safe and secure, with staff always available to help.

    • It’s tailored to suit the needs of the individual.

    • It’s sociable, so that people forge friendships and have the chance to become a greater part of their local community, perhaps through education, employment and volunteering opportunities.

Examples of what supported living can help with

This type of care is wide-ranging – here are just some of the things it encompasses:

    • Deciding where to live

    • Running the home

    • Personal care

    • Handling money and benefits

    • Sorting out college or other courses, or employment or volunteering opportunities

Supported living from Seven Star Care

Talk to us at Basingstoke-based Seven Star Care about our supported living solutions. We cover all of Hampshire with our nurses, care assistants, support workers and others. We’re all about quality, high standards and attention to detail.

Call us on 01256 541121 today to talk about supported living for you or someone in your family.