Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about Supported Accommodation

  • Supported accommodation are houses or flats for people who have a support need such as a learning disability, a physical or sensory impairment, or mental ill health.

    People living in supported accommodation might have their own self-contained flat in a scheme, or might live together with other people, where they have their own bedroom but share the communal areas such as the kitchen and bathroom.

    People who live in supported accommodation have tenancy agreements and standard tenants’ rights.

    Support workers are based in the accommodation and, depending on tenants’ needs, might also stay in the accommodation overnight.

  • Most supported accommodation is short term, either for short periods such as up to 3 months, or, as in most cases, for up to 2 years.

  • In supported living, people have their own rental agreement and need to pay for their own expenses like bills and living costs. The support for personal care and accommodation comes with different agreements. To help with the expenses, individuals might qualify for various benefits, like housing benefit from Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payments (PIP, only up to the state pension age), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA, only up to the state pension age), and Attendance Allowance (AA). There could also be grants available to modify a property.

    Some or all of a person's care and support costs may be covered by the local authority or, in some cases, by NHS funding.

  • Supported living provides extensive assistance to individuals who would typically have no other practical option but a residential home. It offers housing for various groups, such as older individuals, those with learning disabilities, autistic individuals, people with mental health-related needs, vulnerable young people, and those who have faced homelessness.

  • The government's definition of supported housing is accommodation that comes with support, supervision, or care to assist individuals in living as independently as they can within the community. Those who use supported housing include older people and people with learning disabilities.

    On the other hand, in supported living, the person is a tenant in their own home and is responsible for paying their own rent and other housing expenses.

  • A lot of individuals in Supported Housing receive Universal Credit and may have 'Claimant Commitments,' which oblige them to seek full-time employment. Nevertheless, working full time while residing in supported housing can lead to significant expenses for the residents.

  • Supported accommodation refers to housing that is provided to individuals who need assistance due to various reasons, such as mental health issues, disabilities, or other support needs. Whether you can go on holiday while living in supported accommodation depends on the specific rules and regulations of the accommodation provider.

    Supported accommodation providers may have policies regarding residents going on holiday. Some providers may allow residents to take short breaks or holidays, while others may have restrictions or require advance notice.

    At Pinehirst Supported Accommodation, It's important that our service users communicate with our staff or management of their temporary absences.

    Additionally, if you receive support services as part of your accommodation arrangement, it's essential to discuss your plans with our support workers to ensure that any necessary arrangements are made for your absence.