Question 1

Who is supported living for?

Accepted Answer

Supported living is for adults (18+) who need some level of support to live as independently as possible. This includes people with learning disabilities, autism, mental health conditions, and complex or multiple needs. Eligibility is typically determined through a social care needs assessment by your local authority.

Question 2

How is supported living different from a care home?

Accepted Answer

In supported living, you have your own tenancy agreement it is your home. Support is provided separately, so you choose how much and what type of support you receive. Care homes are registered differently and typically offer 24-hour residential care on a single contract. Supported living prioritises independence, choice, and control.

Question 3

Can someone with complex needs live in supported living?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Supported living can be arranged for individuals with high and complex needs, including dual diagnosis, behaviours of concern, and physical health needs alongside a learning disability or autism. We carry out a thorough assessment to ensure we can safely meet each person's needs before confirming a placement.

Question 4

What does 'person-centred' actually mean in practice?

Accepted Answer

It means everything from the way we carry out your assessment to the way your daily support is delivered is built around what matters to you. We ask about your goals, your preferences, your routines, and your communication style. Your support plan is reviewed with you regularly and updated when your needs or wishes change.

Question 5

How do I make a referral?

Accepted Answer

You can make a referral by calling us, completing our online referral form, or sending an email with the individual's details and a summary of their support needs. We will respond within one working day and arrange an assessment at a convenient time.

Question 6

How quickly can a placement start?

Accepted Answer

Once a support plan is agreed and funding is confirmed, we aim to begin support as quickly as possible. For planned transitions, we typically allow two to four weeks to ensure everything is properly in place. In urgent situations, we will always do our best to respond faster.

Question 7

What happens during the free assessment?

Accepted Answer

One of our senior support staff will meet the individual ideally alongside a family member, keyworker, or advocate to understand their needs, goals, history, and preferences. We also review any existing care plans, risk assessments, and medical information provided. The assessment is free and there is no obligation to proceed.

Question 8

Can family members be involved in the support plan?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. With the individual's consent, we actively encourage families and carers to be involved in assessment, planning, and ongoing reviews. We believe the people who know the individual best are a vital part of the team.

Question 9

How is the support funded?

Accepted Answer

Most individuals are funded through their local authority via a social care package, NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC), or a Personal Budget / Direct Payment. Some individuals use a combination of funding sources. We can help you understand your options during the assessment at no cost.

Question 10

Who pays for the accommodation?

Accepted Answer

The cost of accommodation (rent and bills) is separate from the cost of support. Individuals typically pay rent using Housing Benefit or Universal Credit (Housing Element), depending on their circumstances. We can advise on this during the assessment process.

Question 11

Can I use a Direct Payment or Personal Budget?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have been allocated a Personal Budget or Direct Payment by your local authority, you can use it to commission your support from White Oak Care. We are experienced in working with self-directed support arrangements and can help you understand how this works.

Question 12

How many hours of support will I receive?

Accepted Answer

Support hours vary depending on the individual's needs and the outcome of their assessment. Some people need just a few hours of support each week; others require 24-hour support or waking nights. We design each package around the individual not around what is easiest to provide.

Question 13

Will I have the same support workers each time?

Accepted Answer

We aim to provide consistent support workers for each individual. You will have a small, familiar team who get to know you well. We understand that consistency is especially important for people with autism, anxiety, or a history of disrupted care, and we work hard to maintain it.

Question 14

What if my needs change over time?

Accepted Answer

Your support plan is reviewed at least annually, and informally whenever your needs or circumstances change. If your needs increase or decrease significantly, we will work with you, your family, and your local authority to adjust your support package accordingly.

Question 15

How do you handle safeguarding concerns?

Accepted Answer

Safeguarding is a core responsibility. All our staff are trained in safeguarding and are required to report any concerns immediately. We follow local authority and CQC safeguarding procedures and work openly with statutory agencies. We have a named Designated Safeguarding Lead and a clear reporting structure. Details are on our Safeguarding page.

Frequently asked questions

About supported living

Getting started

Funding and costs

Day-to-day support

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