Supported accommodation is housing that comes with on site or visiting support to help people live as independently as possible. It is different from an ordinary tenancy because the rent usually includes a package of support, and staff are there to help you settle, stay safe and build the skills you need for the future.
For a lot of people, supported accommodation is a stepping stone. It gives you a stable base while you deal with whatever brought you here, whether that is leaving care, recovering from addiction, coming out of hospital, fleeing abuse or simply needing a bit of help to get back on your feet.
Who is it for
Supported housing is designed for people who need more than just a roof. You might benefit from it if any of the following sound like you:
- •You are a young person leaving care and living on your own for the first time.
- •You are recovering from drug or alcohol dependency and want a safe place away from old triggers.
- •You are living with a mental health condition and need staff nearby.
- •You have experienced homelessness and need help rebuilding stability.
- •You are fleeing domestic abuse and need a confidential, safe home.
What kind of support is included
The level of support varies a lot from one scheme to another. Some places have staff on site around the clock. Others have a support worker who visits a few hours a week. Typical support includes help with budgeting and benefits, building daily living skills, getting into work or training, managing appointments and connecting you with local services.
The main types of supported housing
When you browse listings you will see a few common categories. Transitional housing helps you move step by step toward living fully independently. Emergency accommodation gives you somewhere safe tonight. Recovery housing focuses on staying well after addiction. Mental health housing offers specialist care and a calm space. Refuges provide confidential safety for people escaping abuse.
How much does it cost
Most of the rent in supported accommodation is usually covered by housing benefit, even if you are working, because the support element is treated differently from a standard tenancy. You will normally still pay a small amount toward things like service charges. It is always worth checking with the provider exactly what is covered before you move in.
How to find a place
You can search verified providers by area and by the type of support you need on Signpost. Searching is free and your details stay private until you choose to enquire. When you find somewhere that looks right, send an enquiry and the provider will get back to you directly.