SUPPORTING PEOPLE

Supporting People is government funding that pays for house-related support services to help people live independently in the community. Supporting People helps a range of people including people with learning disabilities, vulnerable young people and people with physical disabilities.

Supporting People pays for a variety of different services which might include:

• Helping with managing your money and other independent skills
• Helping you claim benefits and fill in forms
• Having a lifeline or call for help alarm system
• Having a regular visit from a warden
• Providing temporary accommodation in an emergency

These services could be in your own home, or in supported accommodation like a hostel, refuge or sheltered housing and can be for a short time or more long term.

Supporting People does not pay for services like:

• Home care workers who help with things like getting washed and dressing or giving medication
• Meals on Wheels
• Health Care

You will not have to pay for your support costs if:

• You receive a service that you are planned to need for less than two years
• In longer term services you can apply for subsidy towards your costs by asking for a financial assessment (which includes a check that you are getting all the benefits you are entitled to)

If you receive full or partial housing benefit you will receive subsidy for all or most of your support costs.