There are lots of things to learn and consider when managing your own accommodation and some people will require some support to be able to do this. Supported housing can vary but could be people sharing a house, or a small group of flats with shared communal facilities where support is often provided on-site. There are a number of supported housing providers within Buckinghamshire that you may be able to access yourself or via your social worker, housing officer or support officer. If you are in the care of Buckinghamshire Council you should discuss your options with your personal assistant. They can help and support you to identify the most suitable housing option for you. Supported housing may be the right option for you if you need to develop your confidence and life skills to be able to live independently.
Bucks Home Choice is the name of the register for social housing in Buckinghamshire. Whilst you cannot be given a property before you are 18 or older you may wish to consider making an application early to get yourself on the register in advance. The scheme advertises social rented properties and aims to give more choice about where you live and when you move. There is a severe shortage of housing in the area and therefore you will need to consider all other housing options available to you. The housing register considers whether someone has a housing need and by law must take certain groups of people into consideration.
If you want to rent a property we have our own private rent scheme. This assists those who are going to be homeless to access rented accommodation. If you are unemployed or on a low income and under 35, the amount of benefit that you can receive if you are privately renting is limited. You may wish to consider finding a room to rent in a shared house, where you have your own room but share a kitchen, bathroom and any communal lounge that may be available. Some homeowners rent a room in their own homes, and this may also be an option that is more affordable.
Our Preparing for Adulthood area has a dedicated section for young people with SEND who want to start thinking about living more independently as they grow older. We understand that housing options can be different depending on your support needs, such as independent supported housing where onsite workers provide support to you as a part of your accommodation. These options can be discussed with your social worker or personal assistant so that we ensure that you access the right accommodation for you.
If you are a young person in the care of Buckinghamshire Council, you will have a Personal Assistant who will assist you with your transition. They will discuss your housing options with you and work very closely with the housing team when it is time for you to transition into your own accommodation.