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Supporting People - What is it and how can it help you?

So, what is it?

Supporting People is a Government programme which helps pay for housing-related support services, offering vulnerable people the opportunity to improve their quality of life. It helps people live independently in the community and provides a stable environment for those who need it most.

Who exactly delivers it?

The Supporting People programme is usually delivered through housing support workers, or through scheme managers in sheltered housing.

What kind of support is included?

It's all about getting support in your own home to help you live more independently, including:

• Support to access to training and employment
• Help with identifying benefits and completing forms
• Getting to know the area you live in and support to get involved
• Training in life skills such as budgeting, healthy eating and well being
• Regular visits from a scheme manager 
• A community alarm such as a lifeline telephone

What isn't included?

Social or personal care is not included, such as bathing, giving out medication and nursing care.

How much do I have to pay?

Nothing if you get full Housing Benefit, or partial Housing Benefit. Your support charge will be paid from the Supporting People grant. Short term services (typically less than two years) are provided without a charge.

How is it paid?

Supporting People will pay the cost of any services you receive direct to your support provider. If you are a leaseholder we may pay the cost direct to you.

What if I have to pay?

If you're not entitled to Housing Benefit and have less than £25,000 in capital, you may get some help towards your support costs. You will need to complete a 'fairer charging' application form. The Supporting People team will assess your entitlement. If you want to apply for this, your provider will have all the forms you need to fill in and can also help you to complete them.

How can I get more information?

Your support provider should be able to answer any questions you have, but you can also contact the Supporting People Team.

Useful Links

To find out more about Supporting People in England and Wales:
www.spkweb.org.uk/

The Supporting People programme at a national level is led by:
www.communities.gov.uk/

To find out what services are available within Staffordshire:
Staffordshire Supporting People Services Directory

To find out what services are available Nationally:
www.spdirectory.org.uk

Last Modified: 14/04/2008 10:42:51
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