Step-Down Semi-Independent Services

Progressive Step-Down Services and Semi-Independent Service Support Models for a Successful Transition to Independent Living.

Our step-down services represent a crucial bridge between intensive support and full independence, providing young people aged 18-25 with opportunities to practice independent living skills whilst maintaining access to professional support. These services, delivered in self-contained flats and shared houses, offer reduced supervision that promotes autonomy whilst ensuring safety nets remain in place.

Choice and Flexibility

Accommodation Options:

Step-down accommodation varies from shared houses with individual bedrooms to self-contained studio and one-bedroom flats, allowing us to match accommodation to individual needs and preferences. Young people in shared accommodation benefit from peer support and shared experiences, whilst those in self-contained units practice complete household management with visiting support.

All our step-down properties are located within established communities with good transport links, local amenities, and access to education and employment opportunities. We work with young people to identify accommodation that suits their needs, considering factors like proximity to support networks, education providers, or employment. This choice and involvement in decision-making builds ownership and investment in successful tenancy maintenance.

Flexible and Responsive

Support Models:

Support in step-down services is entirely personalised, ranging from 5 to 35 hours per week based on assessed needs. Support plans are reviewed monthly, allowing for rapid response to changing circumstances. A young person might receive intensive support during a mental health crisis or when starting new employment, with hours reducing as stability returns.

Support is delivered through a combination of:

Planned visits addressing specific goals and tasks
Drop-in support providing assistance as needed
Group sessions building peer networks and shared learning
24/7 telephone support ensuring help is always available
Crisis intervention when situations escalate

Our support workers in step-down services take a coaching approach, empowering young people to solve problems independently whilst providing guidance and practical assistance when needed. This might involve accompanying a young person to a housing benefit appointment initially, supporting them to attend alone subsequently, and eventually empowering them to manage all benefit matters independently.

From Theory to Practice

Independent Living Skills:

Step-down services provide the perfect environment for young people to consolidate and practice independent living skills learned in higher support settings. With their own tenancies to manage, young people take full responsibility for:

Tenancy Management:

Understanding tenancy agreements and tenant rights
Maintaining properties to acceptable standards
Managing relationships with landlords and neighbours
Addressing maintenance issues appropriately
Preparing for property inspections

Financial Independence:

Managing benefit claims and understanding entitlements
Budgeting for rent, bills, and living expenses
Building savings for future goals
Understanding credit and avoiding debt
Preparing for financial independence from benefits

Health Management:

Registering with health services independently
Managing appointments and medications
Making healthy lifestyle choices
Accessing mental health support when needed
Understanding health rights and advocacy

Social and Community Integration:

Building positive relationships with neighbours
Accessing community resources and activities
Developing support networks beyond services
Managing social media and online safety
Contributing positively to communities

Pathways to Economic Independence

Employment and Education:

Step-down services place particular emphasis on supporting young people into education, employment, or training, recognising that economic independence underpins successful transition from care. Our employment support workers provide intensive assistance with:

Career planning and goal setting
CV writing and application completion
Interview preparation and practice
Understanding employment rights and responsibilities
Managing workplace relationships and challenges
Accessing training and development opportunities

We’ve developed strong relationships with local employers who understand care experience and provide supportive employment opportunities. Our job coaching support continues after young people secure employment, helping them navigate workplace challenges and maintain employment through difficult periods.

Sustainable Independence

Preparing for Move-On:

The ultimate goal of step-down services is preparing young people for successful move-on to complete independence. This preparation begins from day one, with clear move-on planning integrated into support plans. We work with young people to:

Identify appropriate move-on accommodation
Build savings for deposits and furnishing
Develop local support networks
Practice complete independence through reduced support
Address any remaining skill gaps or concerns
Plan for ongoing support needs post-move-on

Our commitment doesn’t end when young people move on. We provide settling-in support, maintain contact through our aftercare services, and ensure young people know they can return for advice and guidance whenever needed.