Building Confidence, Independence and a Place to Call Home - Supported Housing Week

For Supported Housing Week, we’re sharing the experiences of two young people at different stages of their journey in our Young Person's Supported Accommodation. From settling into a new home to taking the next step towards independence, Steven and Laila* share what supported housing has meant to them.

Steven

How have you found things since moving into the scheme?

“Since moving in, it has been spot on and amazing. I think my flat is mint, dead cosy.”

What has been the best part, and what have you found challenging?

“The best part has been having a quiet, peaceful life, which I’m not used to. I feel really grown up. The quietness is also a challenge, though, as I was used to living in a house full of kids.

What have you found helpful about the support you receive?

“My key worker explained utilities and benefits to me, as I had no experience of any of this, and I found it really helpful.”

What advice would you give to other young people living in supported accommodation?

“Always ask staff for any advice, as they are there to help, and try to make friends, as we are all in the same boat.”

Sum up your experience in one sentence.

“Absolutely mint!”

Laila

Now living independently, Laila reflects on her time in supported housing and how the experience helped prepare her for the next chapter.

What has been the best part of living independently?

“Having the flat as my own, I can invite who I want, when I want. I have the freedom of making this choice on my own.”

What has been the biggest challenge?

“The biggest challenge is remembering things I need to do, paying my bills and organising home life myself. Where I live now is further outside of town, so it’s more difficult to access the town centre.”

Which skills do you use most now that you live independently?

“I make sure I arrange the dentist and doctors for myself and attend on my own. I also travel abroad independently.”

Which support made the biggest difference to you?

“Attending my health appointments with me and providing emotional support when needed.”

What was your experience of moving into independent living?

“When I moved, I was happy, but also nervous, with starting all new and finding, with travel, where to get to and from places I need to visit, and also starting a new course at the same time. There were a lot of new things at once.”

What advice would you give to other young people living in supported accommodation?

“Stay focused when learning how things work and how things have to be done, because this is how they can manage their independent living. It’s important to ask questions whilst in supported living.”

*Names have been changed for privacy.