Supported Living

Term from Disability Services industry explained for recruiters

Supported Living is a care approach where individuals with disabilities or special needs receive assistance to live independently in their own homes or shared accommodations. Unlike traditional residential care homes, Supported Living focuses on helping people maintain control over their lives while getting the help they need. This could include help with daily tasks, managing money, healthcare coordination, or social activities. The goal is to promote independence and dignity while ensuring safety and well-being. Similar terms include Independent Living Support or Community Living Support.

Examples in Resumes

Managed a team of 10 staff providing Supported Living services to adults with learning disabilities

Developed person-centered care plans for Supported Living clients

Coordinated Supported Living arrangements for 15 service users in community settings

Led quality assessments for Community Living Support programs

Supervised staff in Independent Living Support environments

Typical job title: "Supported Living Workers"

Also try searching for:

Support Worker Care Coordinator Independent Living Specialist Community Support Worker Disability Support Worker Senior Support Worker Support Services Manager

Where to Find Supported Living Workers

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where a service user's needs have significantly changed?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of care plan reviews, risk assessments, multi-agency collaboration, and ability to coordinate with healthcare professionals while maintaining person-centered approach.

Q: How do you ensure quality standards are maintained across multiple supported living settings?

Expected Answer: Should discuss quality monitoring systems, staff supervision, regulatory compliance, documentation processes, and methods for gathering service user feedback.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you balance promoting independence while ensuring safety?

Expected Answer: Should explain risk assessment processes, positive risk-taking, and methods to support client choice while maintaining appropriate safeguards.

Q: Describe your experience with person-centered planning.

Expected Answer: Should discuss involving service users in decision-making, tailoring support plans to individual needs and preferences, and regular review processes.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is your understanding of confidentiality in supported living?

Expected Answer: Should show basic knowledge of data protection, privacy rights, and appropriate information sharing with team members and other professionals.

Q: How would you support someone with their daily living activities?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of promoting independence, dignity, and respect while providing necessary assistance with personal care, meals, or household tasks.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic personal care support
  • Understanding of safeguarding
  • Communication with service users
  • Activity support and engagement

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Care plan development
  • Risk assessment
  • Medication management
  • Staff supervision

Senior (5+ years)

  • Service coordination
  • Quality assurance
  • Team management
  • Budget management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of person-centered care principles
  • Lack of knowledge about safeguarding procedures
  • Poor understanding of privacy and dignity
  • No experience with care plan documentation
  • Inability to explain risk assessment processes