Moving towards more independence is a major step, whether it’s leaving home, getting more control over your everyday life, or just feeling ready for the next chapter in your life. Supported Independent Living (SIL) is one method that persons with disabilities can make their daily lives easier, more powerful, and more rewarding.

SIL is about getting the right help at the right time in a place that yet feels like home. It’s not about doing everything by yourself; it’s about living life the way you want to, with a support system to help you.

What Exactly is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is all about helping people live on their own in a shared or private home while getting the help they need to learn how to take care of themselves and their home. It’s a method for folks to feel free and responsible for their own space while knowing that aid is always available.

You may think of it as a meticulously planned support system that works with your home life. The funds that you get for SIL is meant to pay for the staff that will be in your home and help you whenever you need it. This help is personalised for you and your roommates so that everyone can live as independently as possible.

The level of support you receive is determined by your unique needs. Some folks may need only a few hours per day. Others might have support workers available 24/7. It all depends on what makes you feel safe, comfortable, and confident in your surroundings.

What Kind of Support Can You Get in a SIL Home?

SIL is intended to be adaptable, as the requirements of each individual are unique. Whether you require assistance with preparing for the day or assistance with meal planning and purchasing, there is assistance available to simplify the process.

 

Here are some of the everyday supports commonly included:

• Personal care: Assistance with showering, dressing, grooming, or other hygiene routines
• Household tasks: Support with cleaning, doing the laundry, and keeping your space tidy
• Meal preparation: From planning and shopping to cooking and learning new recipes
• Budgeting help: Learning how to manage your money, pay bills, and plan for outings or holidays
• Getting around: Support workers can help with transport to work, appointments, or community events
• Building social skills: Support to build friendships, join in social groups, or take part in fun community activities
• Managing appointments: Help scheduling, attending, and understanding medical or service appointments

Having the flexibility to make decisions, to set your own goals, and to live in a manner that is reflective of your personality and requirements is what we mean when we talk about independence in the context of supported independent living. You are not merely a participant in the programme that belong to another person; rather, you are constructing a life that is centred on you.

You are able to optimise your independence in two powerful ways with the assistance of supported independent living, which creates a ripple effect that affects every part of your life.