Housing options for people with learning disabilities
This page provides a brief overview of information on housing options and the services available to help people keep their homes. In addition we have also addressed some of the more common housing related issues facing people with learning disabilities, their carers, family and friends.
Joining the housing register
To get a home through the council or a housing association people normally need to go on the councils housing register.
- Existing council tenants can also join our transfer list if they wish to move. Visit your local or area housing office or call 0207 926 6000 for more details.
- Our housing allocation policy ensures that households with the greatest and most pressing need for housing will get housed first based on a points system.
- Existing council tenants who have more bedrooms than they need, or who no longer require a wheelchair-adapted property may qualify for a financial incentive to move through our transfer incentive scheme.
With such a limited number of council and housing association properties becoming available many people find that the private rental sector is often their only available housing option.
Home ownership
Subsidised purchase schemes such as Homebuy and shared ownership give people who would not normally be able to afford the cost of buying a home on the open market an opportunity to purchase their own home.
Through Supporting People services we are able to promote independent living by providing support and assistance to people who require help to manage their home and retain their tenancy.
The earlier we are aware of someone’s housing problem the more we can do to help. We offer a range of services aimed at preventing people losing their accommodation, or helping them to find a home that best meets their needs.
Useful resources
Housing Options is a housing advisory service for people with learning disabilities, their families and their supporters.
Tel: 0845 456 1497
Email: enquiries@housingoptions.org.uk
The Association for Real Change is a membership organisation which supports providers of services to people with a learning disability.
Tel: 0124 655 5043
The Learning Disability website provides education information for people with learning disabilities, their carers, advocates and friends.
Email: info@learningdisability.co.uk
The National Centre for Independent Living provides resources about independent living and direct payments for disabled people and others working in the field
Tel: 0207 587 1663
Email: info@ncil.org.uk
Advance is a charitable organisation providing housing, support, employment and other services to meet the needs of people who have either a learning disability or a mental health problem.
Tel: 0199 377 2885
Email: info@advanceuk.org
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get welfare benefits?
What is a discretionary trust?
How does a medical assessment work?
More questions and answers on the FAQ page.