Published on Monday 14 September 2020
A new supported living scheme for young people aged 16-25 with learning disabilities, including autism has opened in Southbourne.
The new development consists of eight one-bedroom self-contained flats. This exciting new accommodation forms part of the council’s Adult Social Care strategy for people with learning difficulties (The Big Plan 2018-21) and aims to develop the skills of the young people to help them towards independent living.
This brand new scheme has been developed by Specialised Supported Housing, (SSH), who have progressed other schemes locally in the past. The property will be managed by Inclusion Housing who specialise in managing housing for people with learning disabilities.
Each flat has a bedroom, bathroom and living / dining room with a kitchen. They are fitted with latest assistive technology to help maintain tenants’ safety, whilst promoting their independence.
The supported living scheme is intended to be a short-term service, with each young person staying up to a maximum of two years. During this time, they will be focusing on developing the skills of young people before they move on to more independent long-term housing.
Councillor Sandra Moore, Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People said:
"This development will help young people with learning disabilities and autism make that important step transitioning from children’s to adult services and provide them with the support and help they need so that they are ready to move on to more independent forms of accommodation."
Councillor Lesley Dedman, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health said:
"We are excited about this valuable new development which will provide young adults with the skills they need to move into independent living. By providing this scheme locally and working in partnership with education and employment opportunities we will keep young people local and enable them to maintain and build new friendships and connect with their community."
Alina Homecare are a specialist provider on the Council’s Learning Disability and Autism Care and Support Framework and were awarded the contract via a successful tender process. Alina Homecare will provide onsite support 24 hours a day to ensure the young people living in the scheme can get the support they need.
Alina Homecare – Specialists Care Director, Kate Ford commented:
"We are delighted to be part of this innovative venture working with BCP Council and young people with disabilities to develop their life skills. We are extremely proud of our specialist reputation in providing high quality enabling services for people with disabilities and complex health care needs to live independently."
Eight young people have already been identified to move in by the Council’s Preparing for Adulthood Team. Staff within the team will work closely with Alina Home Care to monitor each young person’s progress.
The supported living scheme will meet the council’s Connected Communities priority by empowering the young people and supporting them with skills to enable them to live safely, engaged and included in the community. The council is committed to the Brighter Futures priority by caring for our children and young people; providing a nurturing environment, the skills and great opportunities to grow Brighter Futures and flourish, leading to Fulfilled Lives by helping them to lead active, healthy and independent lives, adding years to life and life to years.