Our supported living houses in Exeter provide accommodation for young adults with vision impairment and other complex needs to live as independently as possible, with just the right amount of support.
We currently support residents with a range of other needs and physical disabilities including:
- Cerebral palsy
- Autistic spectrum disorder
- Mild learning disability
InFocus Supported Living provides a unique package of accommodation and support delivered by expert staff trained to work with people who have vision impairment and other needs.
How does Supported Living Work?
Supported living enables people to live independently in their homes while having access to additional help and support. This could include assistance with personal care, domestic tasks, shopping, transport, social activities and events.
InFocus supports individuals with basic life skills such as setting up and managing their own bank account, as well as direct debits and budgeting. We’ll also support residents with managing their own medical appointments and appointments, with as much or as little support needed.
Residents will also be encouraged to do their own weekly shopping and cooking, as well as having responsibility for their own laundry.
What are the houses like?
We currently have four supported living houses in Exeter. All are at the edge of the city with frequent bus services to the city centre or to local amenities.
Each resident has their own bedroom, as well as access to communal kitchens, lounges and gardens.
What is the support like?
We provide just the right amount of support to help each resident develop a life in the community. Our staff are trained to a high level (including a Level 3 qualification in health and social care), and are interviewed by some of the supported living residents as part of the recruitment process.
Support staff are also able to use InFocus vehicles, for example to drive residents to appointments or work experience. They work with them to help increase their independence and daily living skills. The InFocus team also provides support to assist with access to employment or volunteering.
All the staff are great. Especially as they help me plan trips away. I also get support in accessing work.
Will, Supported Living Resident
Funding
Supported living is usually funded by the individual, their home local authority, or a combination of the two. Each person can be supported to claim benefits such as housing benefit to help them meet their rent and household costs. They may need to pay something towards the support element depending on the charging policy of the referring local authority.
Read our brochure for more information on funding.
The support I have received from the staff has given me the confidence to independently plan and travel on my own, including recent trips to London
Tom, Supported Living Resident
Why choose our supported living services?
At InFocus, we offer a range of options to suit the needs of each individual. We can provide short-term or long-term accommodation and support, depending on the individual’s needs. We also provide comprehensive residential and day care services, as well as tailored activities and programmes designed to meet the specific needs of each user.
Our team of experienced and highly trained professionals are here to help each person reach their full potential. It’s our goal to create a homely environment that encourages independence.
We are also proud of our commitment to equality and diversity, providing an environment in which every individual is respected and valued for who they are.
Benefits of Supported Living Accommodation
Our supported living and residential care services offer a range of benefits for our residents, such as:
- Living in a supportive, independent environment
- Having the right amount of support to meet the individual’s needs
- Developing daily living skills and confidence
- Accessing employment or volunteering opportunities
- Making friends and developing social networks
- Having the freedom to make choices
- Feeling part of a community
How to Prepare for Supported Living Accommodation
Moving into supported living accommodation can be an exciting opportunity, but it also requires some preparation. Here are some tips for preparing to move into supported living:
- Be organised – Prepare for the move by packing essential items and organising your personal belongings in advance.
- Be proactive – Get to know the other residents before you move in, as well as the staff at your new home. This will make it easier to settle into your new home.
- Be open-minded – Moving into a new environment can be daunting, so it’s important to stay positive and open-minded about the experience. The staff will be there to support you every step of the way.
- Be Prepared – Moving into supported living accommodation requires some preparation, including setting up a budget and creating a plan for daily tasks. It can also be beneficial to look into nearby amenities such as local transport links, shops and leisure facilities – this can help you get settled in quickly and make the most of your new home.