Supported Accommodation

Supported Accommodation comes in many forms. Most schemes have specific criteria that people must meet, such as being a young person under 25, or a need to have a mental health diagnosis or involvement with probation services. This is because many schemes provide tailored support to different groups of vulnerable individuals.

For most schemes you can complete a self-assessment. This will then be assessed by their staff. If you meet their criteria, they will normally invite you to an interview to discuss your application and what the scheme can offer, then they will make a final decision whether to accept your referral. Depending on whether the scheme has any spaces, you may have a wait for a vacancy before you are able to move in, once accepted.

In all cases there will be support provided by trained professional staff and it will be a requirement for you to engage with this. This normally focuses on how to keep a home, pay bills, budget your income etc.

You will be charged rent and a service charge, but your assigned keyworker will normally help you apply for the Housing Element of Universal Credit or Housing Benefit if you are on a low income.

Most schemes across Kent cater for single individuals but not couples or families.

Tenancy Type

Your occupancy rights will generally vary between having an Assured Shorthold Tenancy or a Licence Agreement. If you breach any terms in these agreements – such as failing to pay rent, causing antisocial behaviour, bringing or using drugs on site, etc – you are likely to be given notice to leave. If you do receive a notice, come to your nearest council for further advice, but also work with your support worker and change your behaviour to try to resolve the issue.

Moving On

How long you can live at the scheme may vary, so check with your occupancy agreement so that you understand what is expected of you and what rights you have. Your support worker will often help you to move on when you are ready.

Supported Accommodation Providers