Key to new homes for neurodiverse young adults

Young adults who are neurodiverse are being given the opportunity to gain the skills and confidence they need to live independently in a safe environment.   

A shared home has been officially opened in Blandford Forum to support three young adults to develop daily living skills.

The residents will be Care Act eligible, which means they qualify for support following a care needs assessment. Support will incorporate tech enabled care in addition to in person support to maximise independence.

They have primary neurodiverse needs but not complex needs and will be offered support, from six months up to three years.

This initiative aligns with the Starts at Home campaign, led by the National Housing Federation, which advocates for investment in supported housing.  

Councillor Steve Robinson, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care, said:

 “This new supported living property is a part of our commitment to helping young adults with neurodiverse needs achieve their aspirations for independent living with a focus on enabling support and move on.

“In Dorset, there is a growing need for this kind of accommodation and to have this as an option is going to be life-changing for people.

This will be a place that young people can call home and will provide a safe and supportive environment, where they can thrive. It highlights the positive impact that can be made for individuals and communities.”

The property, managed by SNG Housing, is a refurbished detached home, with a new kitchen, and walk – in shower, sitting room, conservatory, dining room, three bedrooms, shared bathroom, and a staff sleep-in room.

SNG’s Head of Supported Housing, Rachel Strange said:

“We are proud to open this property to support neurodivergent young adults to develop the skills to live independently and meet their specific needs.

“By working closely in partnership with Dorset Council, we've responded to local demand for specialist supported housing and created a safe, positive environment where young people can thrive. We hope it will provide the foundation and confidence for its residents to live a fulfilling and independent life in the future.”

Support at the home will be delivered by iDirect Independent Living, an experienced supported living provider in the South West. iDirect Independent Living Founder, Vinesh Kumar said:

“iDirect is proud to be part of this partnership with Dorset Council and SNG Housing.

“Our role is to provide enabling, skills-focused support so each young adult can build confidence, increase independence and become an active member of their community. We are excited to welcome residents and support them to live a life they have reason to value.”

The iDirect service is complemented by Individual Service Funds (ISFs), providing young adults more choice and control over how their agreed support budget is used. The flexibility of ISFs promotes independence and move on outcomes for residents while also enabling the use of tech-enabled care adding safety and confidence (e.g., prompts, check-ins, sensors or remote support).

Young people meeting the criteria can be nominated via Dorset Council’s Housing Nomination Panel. For details, visit Homes with Support or email [email protected].