Frequently asked questions about supported living shared housing

When choosing the right place to live, it’s important that your loved one feels comfortable and confident in their surroundings. At Lifeways we offer a wide variety of locations as part of our supported living services across the UK, which includes shared housing and
self-contained apartments.

Lifeways sat down with Will Oborne, one of our Community Engagement and Development Managers, to discuss some of our most frequently asked questions about shared housing.

Q. Who is a shared house best suited for?

A. Shared housing is suitable for everyone and offers lots of benefits for leading a fulfilling and more independent life, especially for someone who is looking for a family-home feel.

Paul moved into a supported living shared house with two other people after living in a respite centre for six months. “Immediately we knew this was a home of happiness, care and kindness,” said his aunt, Bev. “We knew Paul would be happy there, and we were right. He is happy, content and growing in confidence every day.”

Q. Does everyone in the shared house share a support team?

A. A shared house will typically have one support worker supporting several housemates at once. In addition to this, everyone will receive one-to-one hours specific to their needs, where a support worker is focused entirely on supporting them during these time periods.

This approach enables housemates to spend time together enjoying day-to-day activities and shared interests, whilst also ensuring each individual is getting independent time with their support team.

Q. How is the space in a shared house split between housemates?

A. In a shared house everyone has their own bedroom which is their own personal space. The kitchen, living rooms, garden, and other communal areas (which can include sensory rooms and additional living rooms) are shared. Most of our shared houses come with shared bathrooms, some have ensuites, and sometimes both. 

Alisha enjoys spending time with her housemates in the supported living shared house she lives in. “We sometimes do theme nights and group dinners,” she says. “It feels like a homely, friendly environment.”

Q. How many people typically live in a shared house?

A. Our shared houses tend to have anywhere between two and six housemates, depending on the number of bedrooms. We carefully consider the compatibility and support needs of the people we support during the referral process, to ensure everyone is living in a happy environment, where friendships can blossom.

Nic and Kes, who live in one of our shared houses in Edinburgh, found friendship in their shared love of Disney. With the encouragement from their support team they were able to arrange a trip to Disneyland Paris together this year.

Q. Can we add personal touches to the house?

A. Yes - in fact, personalising bedrooms is something we encourage. Whether that’s artwork or photographs on the wall, ornaments and keepsakes to decorate the shelves, or a collection of video games, we know that it’s these personal touches that are important to helping people settle into their new home.

When it comes to the communal areas of the house, such as the hallways or kitchen, we request that housemates are considerate and check with others before painting or decorating.

Q. Can friends and relatives visit?

A. Absolutely! Once your loved one has moved in, friends and family are welcome to visit at any time. If you’d like to speak to a member of the support team during your visit, it’s best to check their availability before you arrive.

Q. Are pets allowed in a shared house?

A. Many individuals in our shared houses have pets. It’s important to check the tenancy agreement with the landlord before making any arrangements, and with other housemates to make sure there aren’t any allergies or fears.

To find out more about shared housing or the support Lifeways provides, please get in touch with our friendly team, or start your search to find support near you.