Beyond One-Size-Fits-All: Creating Truly Personalised Supported Living
At Gray Healthcare, we deliver more than just support services – we deliver life-changing outcomes. We are an award-winning, clinically-informed complex care provider of community-based care for adults with the most complex needs. Our model helps individuals move out of long-stay hospitals and other settings into their own safe and sustainable ‘forever’ homes across England and Wales, regaining dignity, stability and independence.
Why Traditional Supported Living Isn’t Always the Answer
For many, traditional supported living services work well. But for individuals with highly complex needs – such as a history of aggression, self-harm, dual diagnoses or forensic backgrounds – shared accommodation or standard community-based settings can fall short.
Latest Data Highlights Gaps in Community Care
NHS Digital data from June 2025 shows over 600 people with learning disabilities or autism have been continuously detained in hospitals for more than five years. Many possibly remain there because they are considered too challenging to support in traditional community placements. A further 270 people are currently placed in hospitals more than 100km from their home postcode, and 28% of those discharged are readmitted within a year. This cycle of institutionalisation continues because the right support just isn’t available in the community.
This is where Gray Healthcare can provide a solution.
Clinically Informed Support for Adults with Complex Needs
Our bespoke supported living services offer an alternative to inpatient and other community placements. We tailor support to fit the individual, whether someone is living with a learning disability, mental health condition, acquired brain injury, autistic spectrum disorder, or have physical disabilities alongside a primary diagnosis of mental illness or a neurodevelopmental condition, or multiple intersecting support needs. We ensure they receive the right level of specialist and emotional support they need every step of the way.
We Are the Bridge Between Hospital and Traditional Supported Living
Our model isn’t about being better than traditional providers – it is about being able to manage a different level of complexity. We offer a true alternative by providing:
- Separate tenancies and support services.
- Individually matched teams trained in trauma-informed care.
- Embedded clinical input post-discharge.
- A focus on reducing support hours as individuals grow in confidence and stability.
We support people to move once into their forever home. As their support needs change, their environment remains stable – something our referrers consistently praise.
In this article, we explore what sets our supported living model apart, how our person-centred, clinically informed approach meets the highest levels of complexity in the community and the proven outcomes that make Gray Healthcare a trusted provider of quality support for people with complex needs. But before we explain how our approach differs, we’ll look at the benefits of traditional supported living services.
What is Supported Living?
Supported living is a model of care that allows people with varying and often complex needs to live as independently as possible in their own home, while still receiving the support they require to thrive.
A Person-Centred, Flexible Model
People in supported living accommodation may need help with daily activities such as cooking, personal care, budgeting or accessing the community. The level of help varies, from a few hours per week to 24/7 care, depending on the person’s needs. This support is flexible and evolves with the individual, fostering a greater sense of autonomy and control over their life.
Financial Independence with the Right Support
To help cover the cost of living, individuals in supported living may be entitled to Enhanced Housing Benefit, along with other financial support such as Housing Benefit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), and other entitlements. They may also be responsible for costs such as utilities, groceries, activities, and any additional staff-related expenses such as holidays or outings – just like anyone living independently.
This approach not only preserves dignity and freedom but supports individuals to develop new skills, connect with their local community and take real ownership of their lives.
Specialist Care for Those Who Need It Most
This type of care is often suitable for individuals with more intensive or specialised health needs who may require around-the-clock supervision or medical support. These services are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in England or the Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW), and are usually commissioned by Local Authorities or health boards.
The Evidence Behind Supported Living: Why It Works
Supported living is more than a compassionate approach – it is one that is backed by a growing body of research demonstrating clear benefits for people with complex needs. From mental health to learning disabilities, the evidence shows that supported living improves outcomes, reduces reliance on inpatient care and ultimately offers a better quality of life.
Here are some of the most compelling research insights that demonstrate the value of this approach:
1. Improved Psychosocial Outcomes for Mental Health
A number of studies have shown that supported housing significantly improves psychosocial outcomes for individuals living with mental health conditions. Reported benefits include:
- Greater autonomy and self-determination.
- Improved self-esteem and personal wellbeing.
- Better social integration and sense of belonging.
- Reduction in hospital readmissions and inpatient stays.
A national survey in England reinforced these findings, concluding that supported accommodation not only boosts independence and satisfaction, but also reduces the long-term costs associated with institutional care. Research from the University of York and the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi) further supports this, showing that people living in supported housing environments report feeling more in control of their daily lives.
2. Community Integration for People with Learning Disabilities
The “200 Lives” study, conducted by Manchester Metropolitan University, explored the experiences of 200 adults with learning difficulties across a range of housing and support settings. The findings were clear: people placed the highest value on choice, autonomy and a sense of belonging within their community.
Supported living emerged as a model that delivered on these priorities, enabling people with both higher and lower support needs to live more independently. In contrast, institutional residential care settings were associated with more restrictions, limited freedom and a diminished sense of control over one’s life.
The study also highlighted the importance of separating housing from care, allowing individuals to shape their environment and routines according to their preferences rather than a one-size-fits-all structure.
3. Breaking the Cycle of Hospital Dependency
One of the most powerful outcomes associated with supported living is its ability to disrupt the revolving door of repeated hospital admissions, particularly for people living with serious and enduring mental health conditions.
Systematic reviews of long-term supported accommodation models show that:
- Individuals are more likely to maintain housing stability.
- Rates of emergency admissions and hospital stays drop significantly.
- People report a greater sense of safety, purpose and community belonging in their own place.
These findings underscore the role supported living plays in offering a sustainable alternative to institutional care – one that reduces pressure on acute services and gives individuals the tools to lead more stable, independent lives.
What Makes the Gray Healthcare Model Truly Exceptional
At Gray Healthcare, we don’t just follow best practice – we have helped define it. Since 2007, we have been leading the way in providing clinically informed, community-based support for people with complex needs. Our model stands apart because it is rooted in clinical expertise, personalised care and a conviction that everyone deserves the chance to live in a home of their own.
We work closely with individuals, families, commissioners and clinicians to design support packages that are truly bespoke; from the team delivering care to the environment they live in. Every part of the journey is thoughtfully planned and clinically led, ensuring long-term stability, safety and progress.
Here’s what makes our approach different:
1. A True Alternative to Traditional Supported Living
At Gray Healthcare, we offer more than a standard supported living service – we provide a clinically-led, trauma-informed alternative to traditional models. Unlike many providers, we keep housing and care provision completely separate, giving individuals greater stability and security in their tenancies. What truly sets us apart is our in-house clinical team, which enables us to support people with highly complex needs who may not be suited to shared settings, or may have been declined by other services and/or have a history of past failed community placements.
This approach allows us to offer personalised, trauma-informed care within self-contained homes, empowering individuals to move forward, not just move out.
2. Support Tailored to the Individual
Our process begins with a comprehensive clinical assessment, gathering data from clinical teams, social workers, families and historical records. We identify what hasn’t worked before and co-produce a bespoke support plan that focusses on promoting genuine independence and security.
3. Specialist Support Teams, Trained for Success
We build each support team around the individual, selecting staff not only for their experience but also for their values, approach and compatibility. While not every team member arrives with trauma-informed care experience, all receive thorough training in condition-specific and trauma-informed methodologies as part of their induction. They also receive targeted instruction in PROACT-SCIPr-UK®, de-escalation and ongoing support from our Multi-Disciplinary Team – ensuring that emotional, clinical and behavioural needs are met consistently.
4. Finding the Right Home- Not Just Any Property
Thanks to our in-house Property Team, Gray Healthcare sources self-contained homes in areas that promote community inclusion, close to local amenities, transport links and support networks. Crucially, the person we support has a say in where they want to live, allowing us to find a location that suits their preferences and goals. Homes are adapted as needed, helping each individual manage daily life independently and confidently.
5. Embedded Clinical Oversight and Legal Frameworks
Our Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration via the hospital directorate enables us to provide ongoing clinical support to individuals under CTOs, DoLS, or MHA Sections, all within a supported living model. This oversight ensures that our support is sustainable, safe and highly responsive.
Outcomes: From Revolving Door to Self-Determination
At Gray Healthcare, our goal is not simply to move people out of hospital but to support vulnerable adults in building lives of autonomy, purpose and stability. Our bespoke supported living model has been designed from the ground up to break the cycle of repeated admissions and failed placements. With the right structure, environment, and clinical input, we offer an approach that is not only sustainable, but offers truly supported living suitable for individuals with the most complex needs.
The outcomes speak for themselves: lives stabilised, independence restored, and a growing sense of self-worth and belonging.
Here’s how our model delivers real-world change:
Addressing Systemic Issues
A National Housing Federation (NHF) report stated that delayed discharges for mental health patients cost the NHS around £71 million in 2023–24 due to lack of appropriate supported housing. It emphasised the need for integrated NHS/social care commissioning. The Gray Healthcare model aligns directly with these priorities, offering scalable, flexible pathways for people ready to leave inpatient settings.
Commissioning for Life, Not Just Beds
Effective commissioning requires collaboration between local council, NHS, families and providers. For supported living to succeed, commissioners must work closely with providers like us to design solutions that prioritise quality support and long-term sustainability over short-term savings.
Fulfilling Lives and Positive Experiences
At Gray Healthcare, everything we do is guided by the principle that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life – not just exist, but thrive. From the first day of support, we focus on creating positive experiences that build trust, restore dignity and promote hope. Whether this means regaining everyday routines, reconnecting with loved ones, or simply feeling safe in a home of their own, we measure success not only in clinical outcomes, but in the real moments that matter to each individual.
By embedding emotional support, choice, and purpose into every care plan, we help people move from surviving to truly living.
Reduced Hospital Readmissions
By creating clinically informed, trauma-aware environments, we help support vulnerable adults to step down from inpatient settings into homes that meet their emotional, behavioural and daily living needs. As a result, individuals are far less likely to be caught in the “revolving door” of hospital readmissions.
Our carefully matched support teams, ongoing clinical oversight, and tailored planning allow people to settle safely and confidently.
Building Skills and Confidence
As people build confidence through small, everyday routines, such as managing their home, engaging with staff, or making personal choices, they begin to experience a greater sense of autonomy and self-worth. While returning to employment or education may not be a realistic outcome for many of the individuals we support due to the complexity of their needs, we have seen some engage in volunteering or take part in local college courses.
These achievements, though less common, reflect the deeply personalised nature of our approach and the value of creating space for progress, however that may look for each individual. Research continues to show that supported living models, especially when tailored with clinical insight, can foster improved self-esteem, independence and life satisfaction.
Creating Meaningful Social Inclusion
Isolation can be one of the most damaging aspects of long-term hospitalisation or institutional care. In contrast, our supported living approach actively encourages people to reconnect with their local community, form new friends and take part in everyday social life.
Our teams are trained not just to support adults clinically, but to engage them meaningfully – encouraging participation in local events with easy access, interest groups and social activities. This emphasis on inclusion helps individuals regain their sense of identity, reduce loneliness and develop fulfilling relationships that contribute to their long-term wellbeing.
Step-by-Step: The Gray Healthcare Pathway
Every successful placement starts with a deep understanding of the individual. At Gray Healthcare, our entire approach is built around the conviction that effective care is not delivered to someone – it is built with them. From the first conversation to long-term support, we follow a structured, clinically led process that ensures every decision is tailored, transparent and designed to last.
Here’s how we work collaboratively with individuals, families, clinicians, and commissioners to create bespoke, life-changing support plans:
1. Needs Assessment and Person-Centred Planning
We begin with a thorough assessment process to understand the person behind the referral. This includes:
- Clinical evaluations.
- Family interviews and multi-agency input.
- Review of previous placements and support history.
2. Balancing Personal Goals with Clinical Insight and Risk Awareness
Using evidence-based frameworks such as person-centred planning, we co-produce a set of personalised goals that focus on what matters most to the individual – promoting autonomy, safety and meaningful progress.
Given the complexity of the people we support, we also take great care to evaluate risk, not only to the individual, but also to the staff providing care. Many of our teams work with individuals who may display high-risk behaviours, including serious self-harm or physical aggression. Our planning process balances aspiration with clinical insight, ensuring that support is both empowering and safe for everyone involved.
3. Recruitment and Specialist Training
Next, we build a dedicated support team around the individual – matching on experience, personality, and shared interests wherever possible. This personal connection supports stronger relationships and better outcomes.
Every team receives specialist training tailored to the person’s needs, including:
- Condition-specific modules (e.g., mental health, learning disability, acquired brain injury).
- PROACT-SCIPr-UK® strategies for positive behaviour support.
- Trauma-informed care and therapeutic engagement techniques.
- Ongoing supervision from our clinical Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT).
4. Property Selection and Adaptation
Our in-house Property Team works quickly and flexibly to identify the right self-contained accommodation – close to family, local services and transport links. We collaborate with social landlords and commercial companies to secure accommodation that is safe, accessible and adapted if needed.
This ensures the environment is not only supported living suitable, but also promotes a sense of belonging and personal ownership.
5. Tenancy Setup and Strong Foundations
We support individuals in setting up and managing their own tenancy agreement, helping them:
- Understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Manage household bills and finances.
- Separate housing costs from care provision for long-term flexibility.
This foundation of legal security and financial independence is key to building an independent lifestyle and reducing reliance on formal services over time.
6. Ongoing Clinical and Emotional Support
Once the person is settled, our support doesn’t stop. We embed ongoing clinical oversight from our MDT, which may include:
- Mental health nurses and behavioural specialists.
- Peer support and therapeutic guidance where appropriate.
- Responsive clinical input that adapts as needs change.
This emotional support and continuity of care ensures the individual remains safe, supported and able to grow in confidence.
7. Monitoring, Reviews and Continuous Improvement
We believe in measurable outcomes – not just activity. That is why we:
- Carry out regular progress reviews.
- Adapt support packages in response to clinical or personal developments.
- Track improvements in independence, wellbeing and quality of life.
By listening, learning and evolving, we ensure our care remains relevant, effective and empowering for the people we support.
Bespoke Supported Living FAQs
Choosing the right support can raise a lot of questions – for individuals, families and professionals alike. At Gray Healthcare, we are committed to transparency, clarity and making sure everyone involved understands how our model works.
Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about our supported living services, our clinical approach, housing arrangements and who we support.
If there’s something specific you’d like to ask, our team is always here to help.
- Who can access Gray Healthcare’s services?
Adults living with complex mental health, learning difficulties, acquired brain injury, autism, physical disabilities, dual diagnoses, or forensic backgrounds—including those under CTOs or DoLS. We can also support individuals with physical disabilities, provided these are alongside a primary diagnosis such as mental illness, learning disability or neurodevelopmental condition. - What’s included in the support package?
From emotional support and clinical input to household chores, medication management, personal care, community integration support and enabling new skills – our packages are customised and provided separately from property costs. - Are the homes shared?
We prioritise individual self-contained homes, not shared houses, allowing tenants to maintain autonomy, security and a strong independent lifestyle. - How quickly can someone leave hospital?
Typically within a 12-week timeframe, depending on property availability and support worker recruitment. We start the journey from day one. - Do the people we support pay rent?
Yes – the people we support manage their own bills and take on responsibility via a tenancy agreement, increasing stability and independence even if Gray Healthcare’s involvement ever changes. - Is clinical input ongoing?
Absolutely. Our specialist support includes embedded access to multidisciplinary clinical teams – essential for sustainable, long-term outcomes.
Begin the Journey to Independence
If you are a social worker, commissioner, local authority, NHS team, or family member seeking a truly bespoke supported living solution, we, at Gray Healthcare offer:
- Individually crafted support services in self-contained homes.
- Embedded clinical and emotional support from trained teams.
- Secure tenancies that promote true autonomy.
- Evidence-based, award-winning outcomes.
Every journey starts with a conversation. Whether you are exploring options or ready to move forward, our team is here to listen, guide and help you build a tailored support plan that truly fits.
Get in Touch Today
Contact us today to explore supported living options, or Make a Referral to begin creating a personalised support pathway that empowers independence and lasting outcomes.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Read Mark’s story, who was once caught in a cycle of hospital admissions. He now lives in his own home, reconnected with family, and has built a stable, independent life with the right support in place.