To give learners a solid foundation on what supported living is, who it serves, and how the model works in the UK housing and care system.
Acquire Knowledge, Empower Self.
Our comprehensive learning will equip learners to understand supported living deeply and navigate the associated property investment landscape effectively while avoiding common pitfalls.
What Is Supported Living?
Module 01: Foundation Course
Objective
Topics Covered
- Definition and purpose of supported living
- The difference between supported living, social housing, and residential care
- The role of care providers, local authorities, and housing associations
- Categories of tenants: learning disabilities, mental health needs, autism spectrum, physical impairments
- The legal framework: Care Act 2014, Housing Benefit, and tenancy rights
- Government policies and future demand (including 2030 projections)
Definition and Purpose of Supported Living
Supported living is a model of accommodation and care designed to empower adults with a range of support needs (including disabilities, mental health challenges, autism, and physical impairments) to live as independently as possible within their community. Individuals typically hold their own tenancy, giving them legal rights and control over their living environment. Care and support services are tailored and provided separately from the tenancy agreement, allowing people to choose where they live, who they live with, and what support they receive. The underlying philosophy is to maximize autonomy, personal choice, and community integration, with support workers assisting as much—or as little—as the person needs.
The Difference Between Supported Living, Social Housing, and Residential Care
| Supported Living | Social Housing | Residential Care | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Individual tenancies, own room/flat | Affordable housing for those in need | Communal living, individual rooms |
| Support | Tailored support/care, separate from tenancy | None or minimal | 24-hour personal and medical care |
| Independence | High level, focus on autonomy and choice | High, but little/no formal care | Lower, structured daily routines |
| Regulation | Regulated for care, but independent tenancy | Governed by housing regulations | Regulated by Care Quality Commission |
| Purpose | Enable independence for people with needs | Provide affordable, stable accommodation | Meet complex care/medical requirements |
Note: Supported living differs from residential care principally in the level of autonomy and legal status. In supported living, individuals have their own tenancy agreement, giving them legal rights as tenants, whereas in residential care, accommodation is part of the care package.
The Role of Care Providers, Local Authorities, and Housing Associations
Care Providers
Deliver the day-to-day support or personal care services independently of housing management.
Local Authorities
Responsible for assessing care needs under the Care Act 2014 and funding eligible care.
Housing Associations
Provide and manage accommodation while ensuring compliance and collaboration.