16th October 2020
As the pandemic surges on, winter draws closer, jobs dry up and financial struggles build, it is a difficult time for those who are homeless, or at risk of being turned to the streets. In this post, we’ll talk about how specialist supported living can help, while giving some background to who is at risk and why.
How many people are affected?
In late 2019, The Independent reported that homelessness among ill and disabled people had risen 53%, and with unemployment, furlough and business closures all increasing this year, it’s likely the figure has continued to grow. Earlier this year, Disability Rights UK reported that nearly half of everyone in poverty is either disabled, or lives with a disabled person.
Why are disabled people more at risk?
Disability Rights UK states that disabled people can face higher costs of living, or can have conditions or health concerns that prevent them from working. Those who do work tend to earn less than the non-disabled, even with the same qualifications. There is also a discernible ‘education gap’ between those with and without disabilities. In a 2019 study, The Office for National Statistics found that:
– Of all disabled groups, those with learning difficulties were least likely to have a degree
– Disabled men were three times less likely to attain qualifications than non-disabled men
– 21.8% of disabled people had a degree in 2019, compared with 38% of non-disabled people
All these factors are linked to quality of life and homelessness.
How can FHA help?
Homelessness isn’t an individual’s issue – it’s society’s. That’s why at Falcon Housing Association C.I.C (FHA), we want to do our part in helping prevent homelessness for some of the most vulnerable people – those with disabilities – through specialist supported living. We are always on the lookout for care providers, local authorities and charities to help create more quality and affordable social housing, and to ensure those in need have a place to call home.
What can FHA offer?
Our specialist supported living services give tenants a place to call home and helps them keep their independence while ensuring they have any support they need along the way. That is why we often call it ‘independent living’. Together with our care partners, we can help with:
– Managing tenancies
– Paying bills
– Boosting wellbeing
– Managing the everyday, independently
Our housing can be self-contained, with its own facilities, or shared accommodation with communal living areas.
How do I enquire about supported living?
To find out more about our work with independent living, or to get in touch for yourself or someone you know who has a disability, visit our contact page today and give Falcon Housing Association C.I.C (FHA) an email.