Overview
Supported living lets autistic adults live in their own home with tailored support. Unlike residential care, the tenancy is the person's own.
Key points to understand
- Funding usually combines housing benefit + Care Act support + (sometimes) NHS Continuing Healthcare.
- Options include own flat, shared house, supported flat scheme.
- Tenancies, support and housing should be separate where possible.
- Choice of provider matters — visit several.
Practical strategies that help
- Start planning at age 14 (under 'Preparing for Adulthood' in EHCP).
- Visit several supported living schemes.
- Build an independent advocate into the planning team.
- Use circle of support and person-centred planning tools.
Common challenges to be aware of
- Some providers cluster autistic tenants in 'autism-specialist' settings — choose person-centred not service-led.
- Annual reviews can lead to support cuts — be ready to advocate.
How Bright Steps can help
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References & further reading
✏️ This article will be expanded with rich, UK-specific content, case studies, video explainers and downloadable resources. If you'd like to contribute a story or suggest a correction, contact the Bright Steps editors via the Community page.