Understanding the Difference between Supported Living and Residential Care
Choosing the right type of support for a loved one, or yourself, is an important decision and understanding the difference between Supported Living and Residential Care can help you feel more confident when exploring your options.
Both our Residential and Supported Living environments provide valuable care and support for adults with Autism and/or Learning Disabilities, but they are designed in different ways to meet different needs and levels of support.
At Cedar Health and Wellbeing, we understand that every individual is unique and there is no “one size fits all” approach when it comes to care and support.
What is Supported Living?
Supported Living enables individuals to live in their own home, with their own tenancy, while receiving personalised support that is tailored to their needs, preferences and aspirations.
Accommodation and support are separate, meaning individuals have their own tenancy rights and responsibilities and we just provide their support.
The focus is on promoting independence, choice and autonomy, whilst ensuring the right support is always available.
What is Residential Care?
Residential care provides accommodation and support together, within a shared environment.
Individuals benefit from 24-hour support with an on-site management team. Our residential services provide a structured and social environment where individuals receive support tailored to their needs.
Residential Care vs. Supported Living
While both models provide high-quality, person-centred support, there are some key differences in how they are structured.
Accommodation:
In Supported Living, individuals have their own tenancy agreement and live in either their own home or accommodation provided through a specialist housing provider.
In Residential Care, accommodation is provided as part of the overall care package within a shared home environment.
Expenses:
All daily living expenses are met by the individual in a Supported Living setting, however for people in a Residential setting, all daily living expenses are covered within their care package.
Management:
In Supported Living, Registered & Service Managers are based locally, offsite, whereas Registered and Deputy Managers are based on site in our residential homes. Both settings provide an out of hours on-call system.
Environmental Adaptations:
As the homes in Supported Living Settings are domestic properties, some adaptations can be made, and all furniture is sourced by the individual. In residential homes, environmental adaptations will have been made to create a bespoke setting, with all furniture provided.
Community and Lifestyle
Both Supported Living and Residential Care encourage individuals to engage in their communities, build relationships and enjoy meaningful activities.
Which Option is Right?
There is no “better” option between Supported Living and Residential Care, the right choice depends entirely on the individual.
Factors such as support needs, communication, confidence, daily living skills, health needs and personal preferences all play an important role in determining the most suitable environment.
Some individuals may thrive in Supported Living with greater independence and autonomy, while others may benefit from the structure, routine and shared environment offered within Residential Care.
What matters most is ensuring the person receives the right support, in the right environment, to live safely, happily and with dignity.
We understand that choosing the right support is a big decision, and weʼre here to help every step of the way. Whether youʼre just beginning to explore your options or you’re ready to discuss specific choices, our friendly team is always happy to talk. Get in touch to ask questions, arrange a visit, or learn more about how we can support your loved one to reach their full potential and enhance their quality of life, health and wellbeing.