Caretilt is an independent social care brokerage service which works to link accommodation based support providers with local authorities. We do not work with families directly and work with funders.
Supporting your daughter or son in finding the right supported living arrangement in the UK can be a complex but manageable process. Here’s a comprehensive guide for family members to help you navigate this transition:
1. Understanding Supported Living
Supported Living is an arrangement where vulnerable individuals with disabilities or special needs live independently with varying levels of support. This support can include personal care, household tasks, tenancy sustainment and financial management.
2. Assessing Needs
Start by assessing your child’s needs. This includes:
- Health Needs: Physical disabilities, mental health conditions, learning disabilities, autism and health requirements.
- Daily Living Skills: Ability to manage personal care, cooking, cleaning, and managing money.
- Social and Emotional Needs: Interaction with others, maintaining relationships, and emotional well-being.
A formal needs assessment can be carried out by your local council’s social services department. They will assess your son or daughter and let you know that a) they are eligible for support and b) if that includes accommodation. Please note that not all support comes with accommodation.
3. Choosing the Right Type of Supported Living
There are several types of supported living options:
- Shared Housing: Your child lives with others with similar needs, sharing communal areas but having a private room.
- Self-contained Flats: Your child has their own flat with support workers visiting as needed.
- Family-based Support: Your child lives with a host family or in a shared lives scheme.
The level of support can range from a few hours a week (normally called floating support or outreach) to 24/7 care.
4. Funding and Financial Support
The cost of supported living can be covered by a combination of:
- Local Authority Funding: Following an assessment, the local council may fund part or all of the support.
- Direct Payments: This allows you to manage the funds and arrange support services independently.
- Personal Budgets: Similar to direct payments but managed by the council or an independent organization.
- Benefits: Your child may be eligible for benefits like the Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Universal Credit, and Housing Benefit.
5. Finding the Right Provider
- First Ask Your Local Authority: Most councils have a list of providers that they use. These have been quality assured and prices are typically agreed. Some Councils will not place your son and daughter in a service they do not have a contractual agreement with already.
- Research Providers: Look for supported living providers with a good track record, positive reviews, and appropriate services. Check their CQC inspection rating
- Visit Potential Homes: Arrange visits to potential living arrangements. Speak to staff, observe the environment, and ensure it feels right for your child.
- Involve Your Child: Encourage your child to express their preferences and involve them in the decision-making process.
6. Legal Considerations
- Tenancy Agreement: Ensure your child has a clear and fair tenancy agreement. They should have the same rights as any other tenant. Ask for easy read versions of all agreements.
- Service Agreement: Your child will be asked to agree to some rules of the service. These may be engaging in their support and cleaning communal areas. Ask for easy read versions of all agreements.
- Mental Capacity Act: Ensure decisions are made in your child’s best interest if they lack the capacity to make certain decisions.
7. Transition Planning
- Gradual Transition: Consider a gradual move, starting with short stays to help your child adjust.
- Support Network: Ensure your child has access to a strong support network, including family, friends, and professionals.
- Regular Reviews: Regularly review the arrangement to ensure it continues to meet your child’s needs. Most Councils review care annually and family members are invited to help inform the review.
8. Advocacy and Support
- Advocacy Services: These can help your child express their views and make decisions. Ask your local authority if they have advocacy services that your child can access.
- Family Support Groups: Connect with other families in similar situations for advice and support. Providers will typically connect families at events but if they don’t then ask if you can have the contact details of other families.
9. Emergency and Contingency Planning
- Emergency Plans: Have a plan in place for emergencies, such as health crises or if the living arrangement breaks down.
- Contingency Fund: Consider setting aside funds for unexpected expenses.
10. Ongoing Support and Involvement
- Stay Involved: Regularly visit and stay in touch with your child and the support staff.
- Feedback: Encourage your child to give feedback on their living arrangement, and act on it.
Conclusion
Finding the right supported living arrangement is a significant step in ensuring your child’s well-being and independence. By carefully assessing their needs, exploring options, and staying involved, you can help your child achieve a fulfilling and supported life.
