This new chapter represents a step forward into a new phase of independence and possibility.
For people living with a spinal cord injury, this journey comes with its own unique set of considerations and challenges. Finding a home that not only meets your physical needs but also feels like a true sanctuary is a crucial part of building a fulfilling and independent life.
This article is designed to be your roadmap, guiding you through the range of living options available after a spinal cord injury. We will explore the different models of supported living for people with SCI, explain the complexities of funding, clarify your rights as a prospective homeowner or tenant, and provide practical advice to help you find and adapt your perfect new home.
At Aspire Law, we know that with the right information and support, the dream of independent living is very much within your reach. Read on to learn more about our services.
Exploring Your Living Options
Understanding the various types of supported living after SCI is the first step towards finding the right fit for your personal needs and aspirations. The term “supported living” is broad, encompassing several models that offer varying degrees of independence and care.
Independent living with a care package
This model offers the highest degree of personal choice and autonomy.
You’ll live in your own home, which can be rented or owned, and a team of carers will visit to provide the specific support you need. The care package is tailored to your individual requirements, from help with personal care and household tasks to support with getting out and about.
The benefit of this approach is the freedom it provides. You have full control over where you live, who provides your care, and when they visit. However, this also comes with the responsibility of managing your care package, which may involve administrative tasks like managing rotas and budgeting, unless you choose to use a care agency to handle this for you.
For many, the ability to build a life on their own terms makes this the ideal choice.
Supported housing schemes
Supported housing schemes provide a blend of independence and community. These are often purpose-built or carefully adapted properties where you have your own self-contained flat or room but benefit from a shared on-site care team. This means that help is available on demand, which can provide a great sense of security.
These schemes can foster a strong sense of community, as you are living alongside other people who may have similar experiences. The administrative burden is often much lower, as the housing provider or a third-party organisation manages the care staff and building maintenance.
While you may have less choice over who provides your care, the consistent and readily available support is a huge advantage for many.
Live-in care
Live-in care involves a single carer living with you in your home. This model offers continuous, one-to-one support and can provide a great deal of companionship. It is particularly well-suited for people who require a high level of assistance throughout the day and night.
The primary advantage is the consistent, personalised care from a single individual who gets to know your routines and preferences intimately. It removes the need for multiple carers and can create a very stable and comfortable living environment.
It is important to note that this option requires you to have a spare room for the carer and is often the most expensive option, though it may be covered by specific funding arrangements or legal settlements.
Navigating Funding and Financial Support
Securing the right funding is a critical part of making independent living a reality. The financial landscape can be complex, but several avenues exist to provide the support you need.
Local authority and NHS funding
The local authority is responsible for assessing your social care needs and determining what support you require to live independently. This process begins with a Care Needs Assessment. Depending on the outcome, your local council may provide funding to help cover care costs.
Another significant source of funding is NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC). This is a package of ongoing care arranged and funded solely by the NHS for individuals who have a primary health need. If you qualify for CHC, the NHS will cover the full cost of your care, regardless of your income or savings.
A key mechanism for managing this funding is through Direct Payments. These payments give you the flexibility to manage your own budget and purchase care and support services directly, rather than having the local authority or NHS commission them for you. This puts you firmly in control of your own care arrangements.
Grants and charitable funding
A number of charities and trusts provide grants and financial assistance specifically for people with spinal cord injuries. These funds can be used to purchase specialist equipment, cover the cost of home adaptations, or provide respite care. Organisations like Aspire are invaluable resources, offering information and, in many cases, financial support to help with the cost of adapting a home to meet your needs. Researching and applying for these grants can significantly reduce the financial burden of moving to and adapting a new home.
The role of legal settlements
A successful personal injury claim can provide the most comprehensive and long-term financial security for someone with a spinal cord injury.
A legal settlement can include a lump sum or periodical payments designed to cover the costs of your care, housing, and adaptations. This can fund specialist housing, a bespoke care package, and all the equipment you need, without the uncertainty of relying on government or charitable funding.
This financial security allows you to plan for the future with confidence, knowing that your long-term needs are provided for. This is a key area where legal experts, like our team at Aspire Law, can offer essential guidance.
Your Rights to an Accessible Home
Knowing your rights is just as important as knowing your options. The law provides protections and frameworks to help ensure you can find and live in an accessible home.
The Equality Act 2010
The Equality Act is a landmark piece of legislation that protects people with disabilities from discrimination. It places a duty on service providers, including landlords and housing associations, to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ so that people with disabilities are not at a substantial disadvantage.
For housing, this might mean allowing a tenant to install a ramp or other temporary adaptations, as long as the changes are reasonable and can be reversed. It gives you a strong legal basis to advocate for the changes you need.
Accessible housing registers and schemes
Many local councils maintain a housing register or a dedicated list of accessible properties in their area. Registering with these schemes is a crucial step, as it can give you priority for properties that are already adapted or are more suitable for adaptation.
The process may require you to provide evidence of your disability and an assessment of your needs, but it opens up an important pathway to finding an accessible home.
Renting versus buying
Both renting and buying have their own unique advantages and disadvantages when it comes to accessibility.
Renting can offer more flexibility, allowing you to move if your needs change or if a property is no longer suitable. However, you are often limited in the extent of permanent adaptations you can make without the landlord’s consent.
Buying a property, on the other hand, gives you the freedom to make permanent and substantial changes. You can apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) from your local council to help fund these adaptations, which can be a key part of creating a home that is perfectly suited to you.
Practical Steps for Your Home Search
Once you have a clear idea of your options and rights, it is time to start the practical journey of finding your new home.
Finding and adapting your perfect space
When you begin your search, it is important to think beyond a property’s aesthetic appeal and focus on its potential for adaptation.
Look for properties with level access, wider hallways, and a layout that can be easily modified to suit you and your needs. Specialist accessible property websites and estate agents can be a great starting point, as can housing associations that specialise in accessible homes.
It is also vital to create a comprehensive checklist of home adaptations you might need. This could include ramps for step-free access, wider doorways to accommodate a wheelchair, an accessible wet room, and a kitchen with adjustable-height worktops.
Think also about modern technology, such as smart home systems, which can provide easy control over lighting and heating.
Working with professionals
You do not need to do this alone.
A team of experts can be invaluable in your search and adaptation process. An occupational therapist (OT) can conduct a thorough assessment of your needs and recommend specific adaptations that will enhance your independence. An architect or builder with experience in accessible design can help you to draw up plans and oversee the work, ensuring it is done to a high standard.
Working with these professionals from the outset can save you time, money, and stress in the long run, as they can help you spot potential problems and find creative solutions. They can ensure your new home is not just accessible, but a joy to live in.
Speak to Aspire Law for Guidance and Support
Finding and moving into an accessible home is a major step towards a fulfilling and independent life after a spinal cord injury. While there are many options and resources available, the process can often feel overwhelming.
At Aspire Law, we are here to help. Our legal experts have a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by people with spinal cord injuries. We can provide guidance on everything from securing the right funding to understanding your legal rights as you navigate the housing market.
Our goal is to ensure you have the financial security and legal support you need to live the life you choose. For information and spinal cord injury legal advice, get in touch online or book a call.
