'WITH THE RIGHT KIND OF SUPPORT MOST PEOPLE CAN BE ENABLED TO LIVE AN INDEPENDENT LIFE.'
DI WOODLAND
SUPPORTED LIVING SUPPORT IN YOUR OWN HOME
In this section of the site you can find out more about Supported Living. The aim of supported living is to give people with learning disabilities choices and the chance to lead the lives they want. This means supporting people to understand and exercise their rights, and encouraging independent living and increased self esteem.
For the people we support it is about deciding where they want to live, who they want to live with and who offers their support. For us it's about putting people at the centre of everything we do. To support and enable people to take control of their lives and help them plan for positive change we listen to what they say about what they want and look for creative ways of supporting them to make it happen. Brandon Trust works in partnership with housing associations and local authorities. We can support people to find a new home, to decide what support they want and where to get it. We also work closely with partners to ensure that whilst we are striving to create independence and inclusion, we are also using the money that pays for such services effectively.
GRAHAM AND CLARE'S STORY
Graham and Clare have a home of their own. Their own flat, their own front door, and their own keys to put in the lock. Nothing unusual in that? Well, Graham could tell a different story. Graham did not get the chance to live in his very own place until just before his fiftieth birthday. Until then, he had spent most of his adult life in a specialist residential college; where he never had the opportunity to cook for himself; where he had to ask permission if he wanted to go away for the weekend; or have a friend round.
The turning point came when Graham met Clare. They suddenly realised they wanted a place to call their own. Graham found there were plenty of people around to tell him it was not possible. Fortunately, there was a Social Worker on the scene who took a different view. After linking up with the Housing Department in North Somerset, a suitable flat was found. The Brandon Trust was asked to provide the Supported Living workers to enable Graham and Clare to gain new skills. They have now been living in their own home for over five years. From being in an almost powerless position, the couple now interview for their own support workers, cook all their own meals and handle their own budget.
