We're joining forces to campaign for the future of supported housing [Archived]

Supported housing provides safe homes for people with a range of support needs - it’s a lifeline for thousands of people who need help to live independently.

That is why we are supporting the National Housing Federation’s Save our Supported Housing campaign - a national campaign, calling for continued investment in supported housing.

We have signed a joint letter with the National Housing Federation, and over 160 other organisations, to the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Supported housing annually saves the government up to £15,500 per person.

Without properly funded supported housing, there will be more pressure on the NHS, homelessness will rise, children's academic achievements will be impacted and women trying to leave abusive relationships could be left with nowhere to turn.

At the Spending Review, the government has the opportunity to invest in the sector and deliver on their ambition to build an NHS fit for the future, reduce homelessness, and tackle violence against women and girls.

Find out more about the campaign on the National Housing Federation's website.

How one of Thirteen's supported housing schemes helped a young mother rebuild her life with her son

As a young mother moving into supported housing, Sam* had already experienced more than many people do in a lifetime.

Abused by her own father, Sam fled her family home with her son, who has long-term medical/additional needs.

Missed medical appointments led to the family being subject to a child protection plan, and in need of support.

They spent time in a refuge before arriving at School View, Thirteen’s supported housing scheme for young parents in Durham, looking for a safe space to begin again.

A financial assessment revealed that Sam wasn’t receiving the correct benefits and was struggling with debt.

With help from staff at School View, Sam was able to take control of her situation and build a more secure future for her and her son.

The staff at School View took a collaborative approach, working closely with partner organisations to apply for Disability Living Allowance for Sam’s son.

When the initial claim was rejected, they didn’t stop there – they helped gather further professional and medical evidence, leading to a successful appeal and backdated payments.

Over time, Sam achieved more than she ever expected while living at School View:

• She secured the correct benefits and became debt free
• She secured an assured shorthold tenancy
• Her son received the appropriate medical and educational support, and staff worked with Sam to find a nursery place close to their new home
• Her and her son were deescalated from child protection measures
• She completed parenting programmes and engaged in work around healthy relationships
• She completed a licence facilitation workbook – a key step towards securing her property
• She enrolled in a degree, helping her plan for her future career

Sam’s story is a reminder of how important the right support at the right time can be. For people facing complex challenges, supported housing is more than a place to live – it provides the tools to move forward with confidence and hope.

*The name of the resident in this story has been changed to protect their identity.