What referrers need before making a supported living enquiry

The best referrals are not the most detailed — they are the most honest. We would rather know the three things that matter most about an individual than receive a twenty-page form filled in at speed.

What we need to start a meaningful conversation is straightforward: the person's primary support needs, any urgency around placement or discharge timelines, and the current living situation or setting they are transitioning from.

If you have existing assessments, care plans, or risk documentation, those are useful. But they are not essential for the first conversation. We would rather speak to you early and build the picture together than wait for a complete pack that delays everything.

We respond to referrals the same working day. Not with an automated acknowledgement — with a conversation from someone who can discuss suitability, timelines, and practical next steps.

We are honest about fit. If an individual's needs do not match what we can deliver safely and well, we will say so clearly rather than accepting a placement that sets everyone up to struggle. That honesty saves time for referrers and protects outcomes for individuals.

Once a referral progresses, you get a named contact. Not a department, not a rotating duty system — a person who knows the case and can coordinate with housing, families, and your team without things falling between gaps.

Primary support needs and any diagnosed conditions. The current living arrangement and why a move is being considered. Any challenging behaviours and what works in managing them. The urgency — are we talking days, weeks, or months? And the key people involved, including family members who should be part of planning.

If you have this information ready, the first conversation will be faster and more useful. But if you do not have everything, call anyway. We would rather start the conversation now than have you wait.