Getting support for independent living

For some disabled clients finding the right house will be only part of a bigger jigsaw of requirements, of which support may be an important part.

Some clients may currently be living with family and/or friends. Others may already be living independently. The reality for many disabled people is that they would be unable to live in their own house (or with their family in certain circumstances) without a level of formal support.

It is therefore very important that anyone giving advice on housing matters to a disabled client, or their family, is aware of the support, both informal and formal, that will be required. There is little point in someone buying a house if they can't live in it because the support they need is not available or agreed and in place. Housing, health and support issues are not mutually exclusive and your client's needs should therefore be considered together.

If your client is likely to need support to live in the house they buy, they should request a formal community care assessment from their local authority. This will identify the types of support required and also who will be involved in paying support costs.

You can find contact details for your local authority social work department in the telephone book or you may find these support contacts useful.