InFocus provides housing for young people with visual impairments and other complex needs in Exeter, Devon.
Each house is fully adapted to ensure safety and assist those with complex needs, such as:
- Vision impairment
- Cerebral palsy
- Autism
- Down’s Syndrome
- Mild learning disabilities
- Severe learning disabilities
- Communication difficulties
Supported housing at InFocus offers a specialised combination of living and support services. Each is provided by highly trained staff who specialise in working with young people with vision impairment and other specific needs.
What is supported housing?
Supported housing is a form of accommodation that provides individuals with the necessary care to live as independent as possible.
Our supported living houses offer a range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each resident. From personal care assistance to help with daily tasks, our dedicated support staff are trained to provide the highest quality care in a comfortable and supportive environment.
We also offer emotional and social support to help our residents feel connected and valued within their community. Our team works closely with residents to create tailored support plans. These focus on their goals and aspirations, helping them to develop essential life skills.
What support is provided for residents?
We support residents in a number of ways, such as teaching them how to set up and manage bank accounts. We teach them about managing their own bills so that they have the skills needed for when they leave us.
Residents are also responsible for managing medical appointments and medication, with as much or as little support as needed. Our staff can help find a doctor or dentist in the local community and support in attending appointments.
They will receive support in managing benefits and payments. Residents are supported in doing their own weekly shopping and cooking, as well as taking care of their own laundry.
Why is supported housing needed?
Daily activities can be challenging for young people with complex needs. That’s why we provide assistance for things such as:
- Personal care
- Domestic tasks
- Shopping
- Transport
- Social activities
- Events further afield
Each can make a world of difference in improving quality of life and independence.
Housing also offers a safe and inclusive space where residents can receive assistance and guidance for daily challenges.
Houses are equipped with adapted facilities and trained staff to ensure that each resident receives specific care and support. From mobility aids to communication devices, our homes cater to a wide range of needs.
What is supported housing at InFocus like?
We want our residents to feel right at home. Each of our houses is designed to be warm and welcoming. Having complex needs is different for everyone.
For those with learning difficulties, such as autism, it may mean needing extra support for communication and social interaction. For individuals with physical disabilities, it may involve adaptations to the living space. Others may have vision impairment or mobility issues that require specialised equipment and adaptations in their living environment.
Each of our housing includes:
Bedrooms – includes a bed, wardrobe and chest of drawers. Some of the rooms have their own en-suite bathroom. Residents can also bring their own furniture or TV, or customise their rooms. We also have security in mind, with keys or swipe-card access for all rooms
Communal living – we have designated communal areas where residents can socialise, watch TV and more. Kitchens are equipped with a talking microwave oven, plus toaster, kettle, and oven. This also includes a small communal fridge. However, we recommend that you bring your own fridge to store food and drink.
Support Workers/Enablers – Our dedicated support workers play a crucial role in providing care and assistance to residents. They are trained to support individuals with a range of complex needs, including physical disabilities, learning difficulties, and mental health conditions. Our support team is available throughout the year, seven days a week (including cover overnight).
Therapy and mobility staff – Our team of mobility/ROVI (Rehabilitation Officer Visual Impairment) staff are available to assist with habilitation and orientation. This includes training in using a long cane and navigating public transport. We also tutors specialising in Braille, as well as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech and language therapists.
Cars and drivers – We provide a variety of cars, including larger vehicles with wheelchair lifts, that can be booked. For those with their vehicle, arrangements can be made to have it parked at InFocus and for staff to be insured to drive it. All staff are carefully vetted annually before being permitted to drive for InFocus.
How long can residents stay for?
Some of our residents have chosen to stay with us for a couple of years. While others have opted to extend their stay for much longer.
The key thing to note is that our community is not just a temporary living arrangement for a year or two. Instead we help to create a long-term, supportive environment where individuals can grow and thrive at their own pace.
Are visitors allowed?
Visitors are welcome to stay for up to two nights a week, as long as the other residents in the house agree. Please remember that it is their home too. Unfortunately, we do not have space for visiting families. But we can provide local recommendations for parents if they wish to visit.
How to get in touch
If you are interested in learning more about supported housing, we recommend reaching out to our admissions team.
Visiting us in Exeter to meet our staff and see our houses and available rooms is also recommended. After that, there will be a half-day assessment to ensure we can meet your needs and determine if we are the right fit for you. We can then discuss the costs of the supported living placement and who will be funding it.
To start the conversation, please contact Shelley Mathews at smathews@infocus-charity.org.uk or call 01392 454313.