2nd April 2019
There are lots of questions surrounding learning disability supported living, which is completely understandable because of how unique each tenant is. In this blog post, we at Falcon Housing Association answer a few.
What is learning disability supported housing?
There are different forms of supported housing for those with learning disabilities, and it largely depends on the tenant’s unique needs and preferences. Tenants could either live by themselves with support or share a home with other like-minded tenants, yet still with their own bed room. The rest of the learning disability supported housing will usually compromise of communal spaces such as a living room, kitchen, and bathroom(s). Some additional features may also include a sensory room, staff sleep-in room, and en-suite bathrooms if needed.
What are the positives of supported housing?
Learning disability supported housing often allows for more individualised and person-centred care than institutional care providers might offer. Tenants also get to choose who they live with, an important step in helping them feel at home and comfortable in their surroundings and with who they share them with. Tenants are also encouraged to provide their own personal effects and decorations to make the spacer their own. Learning disability supported housing also helps to teach tenants valuable life skills such as home management and maintenance.
Is the landlord the care provider, and vice versa?
In Falcon Housing Association’s case, no. We work closely with landlords who own and provide these supported living properties. The landlord does not provide care, support, or influence in any part of the tenants’ lives, they simply provide the property to us and we seek tenants suitable for it. Care professionals are always the people that will be supporting the tenants, and we will even help with maintenance and repairs in partnership with the landlord.
Can special considerations be taken?
Where possible, we will always seek to accommodate our tenants in the most liberating, independent, and supported way possible. For some, this may mean the inclusion of an en-suite rather than a shared bathroom, or a sensory room for them to relax in. If a property or room that meets a tenant’s individual needs isn’t available, we will take all steps necessary to help source the right property and provider for them. We work very closely with the families of our tenants, and strive to understand each tenant’s personality, preferences, and needs before we find them suitable long-term supported housing.
If you, a family member, or a loved one are considering learning disability supported housing, you are welcome to contact our team on 0191 260 0551 to find out more.