Moving out of supported accommodation is a significant step for many people who have experienced homelessness, difficult times or have been in a vulnerable position with regards to their mental health. It’s an opportunity to begin a new chapter in life and start fresh. However, this process can be challenging, stressful, and overwhelming. Thankfully, there are several ways to help someone transitioning out of supported accommodation.
Here are five ways you can support them:
Offer emotional support
Moving out of supported accommodation can be an emotional rollercoaster. It’s essential to provide emotional support for your loved one during this time. You can offer encouragement, listen to their concerns, and provide a shoulder to lean on when needed. Make sure they feel validated, heard, and understood. Most importantly be realistic and try to help them to understand that they will need a support network to help them navigate areas where they don’t feel comfortable, or where they need further input, eg managing utilities and budgeting for expenses which they would not have had when living in supported accommodation.
Help them furnish their new home
Starting fresh in a new home is an exciting time. Help your loved one make their new space feel like home by helping them furnish it. Donate any unwanted furniture or household items you have, help them search for good deals online or in charity shops, and lend a hand with any DIY projects they might need help with. Providing a comfortable and functional space for your loved one can make a significant impact on their mental wellbeing.
Assist with practical tasks
There may be a lot of practical tasks that your loved one needs help with, such as packing, cleaning, and moving. Ask them what kind of assistance they need, and offer to help with these tasks. Accompany them to viewings, help them pack up their belongings, and clean up the old apartment or unit. Use this as an opportunity to bond with your loved one and help them ease into their new home.
Provide financial assistance
Moving out can be expensive, and many people transitioning out of supported accommodation may not have the finances to make it happen. You can provide financial assistance to help cover the costs of moving, furnishing their new home, and other expenses. Additionally, encourage them to seek financial assistance and support from relevant organisations, and help them see if they are entitled to any benefits.
Offer practical support
Your loved one may need some practical support as they adjust to their new home. They may need help signing up for basic services like electricity and internet, or they may need assistance navigating their new community. Offer to help them find local resources, such as community centres or support groups. Consider checking in with them regularly to ensure they’re settling in well and offer any further support they may need.
Moving out of supported accommodation can be a challenging time for many people.
Providing emotional, practical, and financial support can make the transition easier for your loved one. Remember, each person is unique and may need different forms of support. Ask them how you can help, and work together to make their transition into their new home a successful one. A great way to assist is to put together a guide signposting amenities and facilities in the locality where your loved one may be moving to.
For more support and advice when it comes to helping someone transitioning out of supported accommodation, please contact one of the QVT team.