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Supported accommodation

Supported accommodation helps people with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, sensory impairments, or mental health needs to live independently while receiving support.

This type of housing is for adults (18+) who may find it difficult to manage daily life alone but do not need full-time residential care. Support is designed to help residents develop life skills, social connections, and confidence while having a place to call home.

What is supported accommodation?

Supported accommodation is a home where people live independently but have on-site or visiting support staff to help with daily tasks.

There are different types of supported accommodation in lewisham:

  • shared supported housing a small group of people live together in a home with support staff on-site
  • independent supported living residents have their own flat but receive regular visits from support staff
  • 24/7 supported tenancy for those who need round-the-clock support in their home

This accommodation is designed to be a safe, comfortable, and inclusive space where people can build skills and independence.

Who can live in supported accommodation?

Supported accommodation is available for people aged 18 and over who have an assessed need due to:

  • learning disabilities
  • physical disabilities
  • hearing or sight impairments
  • mental health needs
  • autism or neurodiverse conditions
  • long-term health conditions affecting independence

Each person will have a personal support plan, mapping out what type of help they need to achieve their goals.

What support is available?

Staff provide practical help and emotional support to help residents live independently. Support may include:

  • help with setting up & maintaining a home managing tenancy agreements, bills, and housing responsibilities
  • managing personal finances budgeting, paying rent, and claiming benefits
  • developing domestic skills cooking, cleaning, and personal care routines
  • accessing education, work & training support to apply for jobs, training, or volunteering opportunities
  • social and emotional support building relationships, staying in touch with family, and making new friends
  • getting involved in the community help with travel, leisure activities, and local social groups
  • health and wellbeing support access to healthcare, mental health services, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle

The level of support varies depending on the persons needs. It can range from a few hours per week to 24-hour staff support.

Applying for supported accommodation

To apply, a needs assessment must be completed to see if supported housing is the right option.

  1. Contact adult social care reach out to the access to adult social care team to request an assessment.
  2. Needs assessment a social worker will assess your situation to determine what type of support you need.
  3. Finding the right home if you are eligible, we will help find a suitable supported housing option for you.

For more information or to apply, contact the adult social care team. Telephone: 020 8314 7777.

Other ways to get support

If supported accommodation is not the right option, there are other ways to get help while staying in your own home:

  • help at home services support with personal care, household tasks, and daily living
  • mental health support services help for those struggling with emotional wellbeing or mental health conditions
  • learning disability & autism services support for people with learning disabilities or autism to live independently

Need more information?

If you think supported accommodation could help you or a loved one, speak to our team for more details on eligibility and available options. Telephone: 020 8314 7777.

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