“ I use to live in a residential care home. I chose to move to supported living and my advocate and social worker helped me. I now live in my own home and I really like it. I’ve learnt how to make snacks and hot drinks. I can even use the washing machine and the dishwasher. I now work in a charity shop where I enjoy meeting people in the community. ”

“ I moved from a large residential care home in Wales to supported living in Loughton. My life has improved greatly and I have been supported by staff to engage in different activities and leisure pursuits, my favourites are gardening and cooking in the Home. I have now started going to college where I can learn and meet other people and I now also work in a cafe. ”

“ I’m a parent and am pleased to say that since my son moved from a residential care home into supported living, his life has improved enormously. His medication has been reduced; he enjoys different activities and looks forward when going out in the community. Apart from learning lots of different skills in and out of the Home, my son is a lot happier and his appearance is a lot smarter. I also feel more comfortable as I can visit my son more freely in his home, giving us privacy on an individual basis. If any parents, guardians or professionals wish to talk to me please contact Gemstone Supporting Living and I would be more than happy to speak to anyone in person. ”