The Good Lives Manifesto calls on the next Government to make sure people with learning disabilities have the same access to housing options as everyone else.
Affordable housing these days is an issue for many, but for people with disabilities, who are often on benefits, just finding a home which is accessible and without lots of red tape is a challenge.

So, for our fourth election blog, we speak to Associates Jan, Nikkitar, Matt, and Scott Watkin BEM, our Head of Engagement. They speak about how important housing is, and how the security of supported housing can help people live, love, thrive and belong.

Scott is passionate about ensuring housing fosters an inclusive society, where people with disabilities are not cut off from everyone else.

‘At SeeAbility, we want to see people with learning disabilities, autism and sight loss living in ordinary houses in an ordinary street. Building a community they feel safe in, and an environment where they can thrive’.

Nikkitar enjoys the independence of having her own home. 

‘Living in a community in my own home, has given me safety and security. I have made friends here and I can go out and live an independent life. I have choices around what I want to do’.

Also living in his own home, is Jan. Jan likes to go out and explore and is keen for more activities in his local area. He says:

‘Getting the right homes with the right support is really important. It will increase independence and allow us to be more confident. There needs to be more suitable housing at the right price for people with learning disabilities, autism and sight loss. Choice is so important’.

Matt, who lives in supported living accommodation, says: 

‘It’s really important to have a good home. I feel that having this housing and support is good because I can get out and do a lot in my local area, and I love living here. I would not change it for the world. Without it I would not know what to do’.

More supported living choice is much needed, with estimates that nearly 30,000 more places need to be built for people with learning disabilities and/or autism in the next 15 years. Very few areas have set targets to get these homes built, or report on what has been built so people know what is available.

A national scandal

There are still more than 2,000 people with learning disabilities and autism living in secure hospital settings. 

The Good Lives Manifesto is calling on the next government to end the scandal where for years hospitals have become homes, where people may end up living under lock and key, miles away from their families and friends.