SNG and Dorset Council deliver the keys to a new home for neurodiverse young adults
A new shared home for three neurodiverse young adults in Blandford Forum has been officially opened by SNG and Dorset Council. The refurbished property is designed to support the new residents develop their daily living skills and give them the confidence they need to live independently in a safe environment.
SNG will manage the refurbished detached home, which comes equipped with a new kitchen, and walk – in shower, sitting room, conservatory, dining room, three bedrooms, shared bathroom, and a staff sleep-in room.
The residents will be Care Act eligible, which means they qualify for support following a care needs assessment. Support will incorporate tech enabled care in addition to in person support to maximise independence. They have primary neurodiverse needs but not complex needs and will be offered support, from six months up to three years.
This scheme aligns with the Starts at Home campaign, led by the National Housing Federation, which advocates for investment in supported housing.
Rachel Strange, SNG’s Head of Supported Housing, commented: “We are proud to open this property to support neurodivergent young adults to develop the skills to live independently and meet their specific needs.
“By working closely in partnership with Dorset Council, we've responded to local demand for specialist supported housing and created a safe, positive environment where young people can thrive. We hope it will provide the foundation and confidence for its residents to live a fulfilling and independent life in the future.”
Councillor Steve Robinson, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care, said: “This new supported living property is a part of our commitment to helping young adults with neurodiverse needs achieve their aspirations for independent living with a focus on enabling support and move on.
“In Dorset, there is a growing need for this kind of accommodation and to have this as an option is going to be life-changing for people.
This will be a place that young people can call home and will provide a safe and supportive environment, where they can thrive. It highlights the positive impact that can be made for individuals and communities.”
Support at the home will be delivered by iDirect Independent Living, an experienced supported living provider in the South West.
iDirect Independent Living Founder, Vinesh Kumar, said: “iDirect is proud to be part of this partnership with Dorset Council and SNG.
“Our role is to provide enabling, skills-focused support so each young adult can build confidence, increase independence and become an active member of their community. We are excited to welcome residents and support them to live a life they have reason to value.”
The iDirect service is complemented by Individual Service Funds (ISFs), providing young adults more choice and control over how their agreed support budget is used. The flexibility of ISFs promotes independence and move on outcomes for residents while also enabling the use of tech-enabled care adding safety and confidence (e.g. prompts, check-ins, sensors or remote support).
Young people meeting the criteria can be nominated through Dorset Council. For more information on who qualifies please visit the council’s website.