What is Supported Living?

Supported Living is a new way of supporting people who have previously only had the option of living in residential facilities and rest homes. Supported Living focuses on the needs of each person, rather than assuming that we all want the same life for ourselves. We go beyond mere provision of the basics and continually boost each person's ability to live an independent, safe and responsible life and fulfil their potential. A package of support services is worked out with each person and those close to them. That ranges from help with planning personal goals to coaching in housework, cooking and finding a job or a house.

Supported Living means:

Not having to share with thirty other people.
Doing things when you feel like it – eating, seeping, cooking.
Having the skills to look after yourself and stay safe.
Having friends over to visit.
Having a real job.
Getting better at things like speaking up for yourself.
Choosing what TV channel to watch.
Being in charge of your own money.

What do I have to do to get it?

Approval for Supported Living comes from Needs Assessment ("NASC") agencies who manage funds from the Ministry of Health. Your local NASC agency can arrange an assessment to see if you are eligible for SL and then refer you to Renaissance. We will take it from there.

How is it different to a rest home or residential service?

Supported Living means living in the community with the right support services for an independent life. We work closely with each person we support to help them strengthen the skills and habits they need to keep them safe and fulfilled.

By comparison, rest homes and residential facilities just don't have the resources to focus on helping each person in their care to fulfill their potential. Residential services also provide less choice for each person – which is particularly distressing for younger people who are still finding out what they like. One size does not fit all.

Most people say they want to live in their own home, not jammed in with lots of other people they have nothing in common with. SL is only what we'd want for ourselves and those we love. It just makes more sense.

Do other organisations offer the same service?

Yes, there are a few – although we are confident that Renaissance offers the best service. Please feel free to check out what other Supported Living organisations offer and ask us what makes us better.

How can I find out more?

For more information, please contact us.

Service Principles

All services must be in response to an indentified need and to the goals of the person and or their family/whanau/aiga.

All services must be governed by policies which ensure that the privacy and confidentiality of the person is safeguarded at all times.

All services must be based on the principle of minimal intrusion.

All policies, processes and practices must ensure that neither this organization nor staff member exercises more control over any aspect of a person than would be considered appropriate for a non-disabled person.

Every service will ensure that it is the person themselves and or their family/whanau/aiga who has the maximum input into all decision making. (Where this is not possible ensure that the best decisions are made with regard to the services provided).

All policies, processes and practices must enable the organization to be fully accountable to those people receiving the services and their family/whanau/aiga.

Services must promote opportunities for the person to reach their goals and enjoy the lifestyle of their choice.

SOME EXAMPLES OF SERVICES PROVIDED WITH SUPPORTED LIVING

Assistance to set goals and tasks to achieve independence
Support to attend appointments
Assistance with Government Agencies
Assistance to find accommodation
Coaching in community integration
Coaching in social skills
Assistance to gain Drivers license
Coaching with cooking
Coaching with housework
Ongoing support with independence
Coaching in caregiver management
Coaching in using public transport
Coaching in budget management