Help for people with disabilities. Supported Living Learning Disabilities.

Choosing a supported living learning disabilities provider or community/ accomodation based supported living help for people with disabilities is a crucial step towards ensuring independence, dignity, and a fulfilling life. This guidance outlines key considerations and best practices to help individuals and their families make informed decisions.

Supported living is a person-centred approach that allows individuals with disabilities, including autism, to live independently within their communities. Unlike traditional residential care, supported living emphasizes autonomy, choice, and tailored support to meet individual needs. This model promotes personal growth and social connections, enabling individuals to lead meaningful lives on their own terms.

• Care Quality Commission (CQC): The CQC regulates supported living services in England, ensuring they meet safety and quality standards. Services must promote dignity, privacy, and human rights, allowing individuals to live confident and empowered lives.
• Tenancy Rights: In supported living, individuals typically hold their tenancy agreements, granting them legal rights and responsibilities as tenants. This arrangement provides control over their living environment, including choices about their home and who they live with .
• Equality Act 2010: This legislation protects autistic and disabled individuals from discrimination, ensuring they have equal access to services and opportunities.

When evaluating supported living services, consider the following:

• Person-Centred Support: Services should offer personalized support plans that reflect the individual's strengths, preferences, and aspirations. Regular reviews of these plans are essential to adapt to changing needs.
• Community Integration: Look for services that encourage participation in community life through social activities, volunteering, and employment opportunities.
• Staff Training and Experience: Ensure that staff are trained in autism and disability awareness, communication strategies, and positive behaviour support.

Supported living can take various forms, depending on individual needs and preferences:

• Individual Flats or Apartments: Ideal for those seeking privacy and autonomy, allowing individuals to live independently while accessing support as needed.
• Shared Houses: These arrangements involve individuals with similar support needs living together, fostering companionship and social interaction while maintaining some level of privacy.
• Supported Accommodation: Properties specifically designed or adapted for individuals with complex needs, featuring accessibility options and on-site support.
• Supported Living Schemes: These schemes combine individual support with communal living, often including on-site staff and communal areas for socializing.

Funding for supported living services typically comes from various sources:

• Local Authority Funding: Local councils often fund supported living services based on assessed care needs. Eligibility is determined through a needs assessment.
• Personal Budgets and Direct Payments: Individuals may receive personal budgets from local authorities, allowing them to manage their support services flexibly.
• Housing Benefit: Individuals living in supported accommodation may qualify for housing benefit to assist with rent costs .

• Supported Decision-Making: Encourage individuals to participate actively in decisions about their support and living arrangements. This approach fosters independence and self-determination .
• Family and Advocate Involvement: Families and advocates play a crucial role in supporting individuals, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met.

• Site Visits: Arrange tours of potential services to observe the environment, meet staff, and understand daily routines.
• Ask Questions: Inquire about staff training, emergency procedures, and how feedback is handled to ensure a supportive atmosphere.

• Regular Reviews: Support plans should be reviewed regularly to ensure they continue to meet the individual's needs and preferences.
• Feedback Mechanisms: Establish clear channels for raising concerns or requesting changes to support, ensuring that individuals feel heard and valued.

• Is the service registered and compliant with CQC regulations?
• Are person-centred support and individual choice prioritized?
• Is the accommodation accessible and adapted to sensory and physical needs?
• Are staff trained and experienced in autism and disability support?
• Are there clear policies for safety and safeguarding?
• Is funding transparent, and are all available benefits explored?
• Is the individual involved in all decisions, with support as needed?
• Are there opportunities for community integration and skill development?
• Are there mechanisms for regular review and feedback?

By following this guidance, individuals and families can make informed choices about supported living services, ensuring that autistic and disabled individuals receive the support they need to live fulfilling, independent lives.