Supported living

Supported living means having your own home – and the support you need to live your life the way you want.

About supported living

You rent or own your home, just like anyone else. You have a tenancy, which means you have rights over your home and how you live in it. Our job is to provide the support that helps you live well.

We support people in 26 supported living services across Sussex. Support can mean a few hours a week or round-the-clock assistance — shaped entirely around what you need and how you want to live.

At most of our supported living services, we provide 24-hour support. But the key difference from a care home is that you have your own tenancy.

I like my home. I feel comfortable here. Being here is freedom. I can go out when I like, come back when I like. I've got a lot more independence.
Southdown tenant

What supported living looks like

Supported living can be very different for different people. It depends on what you need and how you want to live.

For some people, it might mean a few hours of support each week — help with shopping, managing money, or staying connected to the community. For others, it might mean around-the-clock support in a shared house or self-contained flat.

Types of home

Self-contained flats

Your own front door, kitchen, and bathroom. Full independence within your own space.

Shared houses

Your own bedroom with shared living spaces. A chance to build community with others.

As your needs change, your support can change too. We work alongside you to make sure what we provide fits your life — not the other way around.

What support might include

The support you receive is shaped around what matters to you. It might include:

  • Help with daily living — cooking, cleaning, looking after your home
  • Managing money and paying bills
  • Health and wellbeing — appointments, medication, staying well
  • Building confidence and learning new skills
  • Getting out into your community — activities, friends, interests
  • Working towards goals — education, volunteering, employment

Is supported living right for you?

Supported living might be right if any of these feel familiar:

Your own home

You want to live in your own home with more independence — your own tenancy, your own front door.

Your daily life

You want control over your daily life and how you spend your time — on your terms, at your pace.

Flexible support

You want support that can flex as your needs change — from a few hours a week to round-the-clock.

Community

You want to build skills, friendships, and connections in your community — and take positive steps forward.

If you need higher levels of care throughout the day and night, a registered care home might be a better fit.

Accessing support

To access our services, you’ll need an Adult Social Care Assessment through your local authority. If you’re a professional or family member and would like to discuss a referral or check availability, get in touch with us directly.

We currently have vacancies

We have supported living vacancies across Sussex.

Both options are shaped around you — your strengths, your choices, and what a good life looks like for you. Not sure which is right? We’re happy to talk it through.

Talk to us directly

LDReferrals@southdown.org

01273 405 800

For professionals, families, or anyone who wants to discuss a referral or check availability.

Looking for support?

Find out what services are available to you or someone you care about.

Get support