Independent Living: What Support Is Available?

Adults with learning disabilities and autism have the right to live within their community and make choices about how they live, supporting a more independent, empowered and fulfilling life.

LIVING A HAPPY AND EMPOWERED LIFE

When thinking about independent living, one key principle should remain at the centre: people with learning disabilities and autism should have the opportunity to choose where they live and who they live with.

These decisions will vary from person to person, depending on their individual needs and circumstances. Open and honest conversations are important to ensure the adult’s wishes are heard and respected, helping them feel more in control of their life and future.

Independent living means having the freedom, confidence and guidance to live in a way that works for the individual and their personal goals, needs and aspirations.

PLANNING AHEAD

Moving home can be both exciting and stressful. Finding the right place often takes time, which is why planning ahead is so important. Having the right guidance in place can help make the process smoother and less overwhelming. Support may come from family members, social workers, carers or other trusted people, and good communication between everyone involved is key.

When considering accommodation, there are several important factors that can help promote wellbeing and independence:

Location: a safe environment with good access to shops, transport links and daily activities
Community engagement: opportunities to stay connected with family, friends or social groups, encouraging positive integration into the local neighbourhood
Suitable care: ensuring the right level of assistance is available to help the person feel safe and comfortable at home
Accessibility: making sure the property meets the individual’s specific needs

Clear information and guidance can help adults and their families make informed housing decisions. It is also important to remember that housing arrangements and support can change over time as needs evolve.

FINDING A NEW HOME

Once the adult’s needs and preferences have been identified, the search for a suitable home can begin. This stage may feel overwhelming at times, so seeking guidance from the right organisations and professionals can make the process easier.

Helpful organisations may include:

Local Council Housing Departments
Local housing Associations
Self-advocacy and family organisations
Housing advice services
Organisations that provide housing or support

AVAILABLE LIVING OPTIONS

Independent living can take different forms depending on the individual’s needs and preferences, including:

Renting: through a council or local housing association, charity organisation, private landlord, letting agent, family member or friend
Home ownership: buying a home, with specialist organisations available to support people with long term disabilities
Shared Lives Schemes: living with an approved host family who will provide care and assistance
Supported housing or group homes: shared houses or individual flats with communal facilities
Living with family members

There are also financial options that may help with housing and living costs, including:

Universal Credit or Housing Benefit: government funding to help pay rent
Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP): additional financial support from the local Council to help with housing costs
Specialised Supported Housing’ (SSH): specialist accommodation designed for people with additional needs
Disabled Facilities Grant: funding available to adapt a home to specific needs

Housing and support arrangements can have a significant impact on the wellbeing and independence of adults with learning disability and autism. Early planning, open communication and personalised guidance can help people build a more independent life while remaining connected to their chosen community.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT IN GUILDFORD

halow project supports young adults with learning disabilities and autism to build confidence and develop greater independence through its Independent Support Programme (ISP). The Programme focuses on goals such as managing money, building friendships, and preparing for employment or future independent living, with guidance tailored to the individual’s needs.

halow’s Supported Living programme takes this further by giving young adults the opportunity to live in shared community homes across Surrey. Residents are supported with everyday tasks such as cooking, cleaning, budgeting and socialising, helping them develop life skills, build confidence and enjoy more independent lives. The programme currently includes five community houses and continues to grow to support more young adults across the community.

If you have any questions or need guidance, please contact us at: referrals@halowproject.org.uk.

SUPPORT PLANNING INDEPENDENCY CHOICES

COMMUNITY MEETING THE NEEDS

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Sources

Learning Disability - Independent Living - Housing | Mencap

Making Your Housing Plan - Learning Disability England

Supported Living For People With Disabilities | Achieve Together

Housing for people with a learning disability or autistic people | Local Government Association

NHS England » National plan – building the right support

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