Making the move to Lifeways
Moving to supported living or residential care is an exciting time in a young person’s life. It’s an opportunity to gain more independence, learn new life skills, and meet lots of like-minded people - all with the reassurance of having support on hand as and when needed. At Lifeways, we’ve supported countless young adults in their transition to adult services, and so we’re here to support you and your family every step of the way.
Start planning today for a successful move
To find out more about Lifeways and the support we offer, or to enquire about our available locations, please call us today on 0330 191 6161. Alternatively, fill out the form below and one of our friendly local referrals managers will be in touch.
Support that empowers people
At Lifeways, we support people to get the most out of life, every day. Whether that means exploring employment or volunteering, learning new skills, spending time in the local community, or meeting new and like-minded people - we’re here to make sure it happens.
Together with the individual, their family, and anyone else in their support network, we’ll build a support plan to make sure everything we do helps to create a more fulfilling and independent life, whilst working towards achieving any short- or long-term personal goals.
“I like the fact I can get out on my own and be more independent. I also enjoy cooking my own meals and going shopping.”
Alisha, who moved to Lifeways from college
“I’ve made some lovely friends with the girls I live next to. I feel I'm becoming more independent, and my confidence is growing.”
Kirsty, who moved to Lifeways from her family home
Great locations in the heart of local communities
With Lifeways, there’s plenty of choice when it comes to places to live, with houses, bungalows and apartments available in both our supported living and residential care locations. With shops, amenities, and transport links nearby, these are places that feel closely connected to the local community.
Each of our homes have their own feel, so there’s sure to be a place that feels just right. We take the time to show people around the places we think could be most suitable, answer any questions, and provide the opportunity to meet our team and the other people we support, to make sure everyone feels confident and reassured.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the minimum age for moving to Lifeways?
We support adults aged 18 and over at Lifeways, but we recommend that the earlier you start the conversation on the transition process, the better - usually from around 14.
How do we start the process of transitioning to Lifeways?
If you or a loved one are interested in making the move to Lifeways, you will need to have funding for your support in place. If you don’t currently have funding, the first step will be to contact your local authority (which you can find using gov.uk/find-local-council) or ask your GP and they will be able to refer you.
Your local authority will then put you in touch with a social worker to help get your support agreed. Once your local authority has agreed your support, you can then get in touch with Lifeways and one of our Referral Managers will contact you to discuss your needs.
Can relatives have a say in choosing support and locations?
We recommend that they do, wherever this is possible. We will carry out an assessment based on each individual’s needs, taking into account their wellbeing and wishes. Supported by you, it is their decision to choose their new home, and we will discuss any choices with you all at every stage of the way.
Can loved ones visit before the move-in date?
Yes, of course. We know it's really important to get a feel for a new home before making the decision. We'll be happy to arrange a visit so that people can have a proper look around, meet potential new neighbours, and explore the local area.
Can friends and family visit the house whenever they choose?
Yes, once moved in, friends and family are welcome to visit at any time. If any visitor would like to speak to a member of the management team, it’s always best to let us know beforehand so they can be available.
Will there always be a Lifeways team member on site?
Most of our houses have a Lifeways team member on site at all times, and there will always be someone you or your loved one can contact. Our new flats are fitted with on call systems as standard so every resident can reach someone easily should the need arise.
Where can I find the CQC report for my local area?
The Care Quality Commission monitor, inspect, and regulate health and social care services. All our offices are registered with the CQC and you can access reports on their website cqc.org.uk.
Can personal budgets / individual payments be used to access support?
Yes, we are equipped to deal with individual budgets, different sources of funding and also varying levels of budget.
Do you have homes that are best suited to younger adults?
At Lifeways we support people of all ages, and make sure to find the right fit for people at each location in terms of age, interests and support needs. We get to know individuals first and foremost, before advising where we think might be the right place for them.
Is it possible to get into volunteering or work?
Yes. Our aim is to help the people we support to meet their short- and long-term goals, whatever they may be.
Are people able to do the things they love in life?
Absolutely. The people we support choose how they live their lives and how they spend their time. And we do everything we can to help those with complex needs to lead independent, fulfilling and happy lives.
Can rooms be personalised?
Yes! We encourage people to bring their personal possessions, including photos and artwork to hang on the walls, to make the space their own.
Support for a smooth move-in process
Whether the move is from a family home or from college, transitioning to supported living or residential care can create a period of change in life. At Lifeways, it’s important to us that each person feels supported and comfortable throughout this time, and so we’ll be on hand to help make it as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
We’ll make sure to keep everyone up-to-date throughout the whole process, aim to keep disruptions to routines to a minimum, and offer lots of friendly advice and support to help when making any decisions.
“From the moment we first viewed our son’s new home, our whole family has been supported by the kind, friendly, welcoming and very professional staff.”
Parents of a person we support, who moved to Lifeways from his family home
Get in touch with Lifeways today
Please call us today on 0330 191 6161 or fill out the form below:
About Lifeways
Lifeways has been a provider of supported living and residential care since 1995, empowering nearly 5,000 adults across the UK who live with autism, learning disabilities and arrange of other conditions to lead more independent and fulfilling lives.