Housing Support at Valley House
Leaving supported accommodation and moving towards independent living is a significant step for survivors of domestic abuse. At Valley House, we recognise the importance of a smooth transition and offer comprehensive community support to ensure individuals and families feel confident and prepared for this new chapter. Our dedicated team provides guidance and practical assistance every step of the way.
Initial Housing Assessment and Support Planning:
Once a resident receives their notice to leave supported accommodation, they transition to our Community Support service. We begin by supporting them through the initial housing assessment with the housing officer. This assessment covers crucial areas such as risk factors, health conditions, mobility issues, and other individual needs. This information forms the foundation of a personalized support plan.
Building Essential Skills and Knowledge:
Our casework sessions are designed to equip residents with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the community. These sessions cover a range of topics, including:
- Community Support Resources: We provide information about available support services in the community, often partnering with organizations like P3 to connect residents with relevant resources.
- Community Safety: A key focus is on safety in the community. We discuss strategies for staying safe, including recognizing potential risks and accessing emergency support if needed.
- Budgeting and Financial Management: If budgeting support is required, we utilize online budgeting tools to help residents develop effective money management skills.
- Accessing Support Grants: We discuss the support grants available to help with essential items, white goods, flooring, and other household necessities, guiding residents through the application process.
Preparing for the Move:
As the end date approaches, we engage in detailed discussions about what to expect during the move. This includes practical considerations such as packing belongings, cleaning the property, and organizing utilities for their new residence.
We also assist with logistical arrangements, such as:
- Storage and Removals: If needed, we organise storage units and removal vans, coordinating schedules and ensuring a smooth move.
- Public Health Appointments: We can assist in scheduling and attending public health appointments.
Post-Move Support:
For individuals and families moving into their own tenancies (not temporary accommodation), our support extends for up to three months. This includes assistance with:
- Utility Setup: We help residents set up utilities, including gas, electricity, and water.
- Council Tax Registration: We guide them through the process of registering for council tax.
- Community Safety Reinforcement: We revisit and reinforce community safety strategies.
- Referrals to Support Services: If additional support is needed, we facilitate referrals to relevant agencies.
Emotional Support and Practical Considerations:
Recognising the emotional challenges associated with moving, we provide extensive emotional support. Families often experience anxiety after receiving their notice, and our team offers reassurance and guidance during this time. We also address practical considerations, such as discussions around pet care and resources like the Dogs Trust.
Life Skills Development:
Our bi-quarterly Life Skills group is invaluable for those preparing to leave supported accommodation. These sessions cover essential topics, including housing options, energy saving tips, practical DIY skills, budgeting, employability, and community safety.
Additional Support:
We are committed to inclusivity and offer additional support to meet individual needs. This includes utilizing translators for families where English is not their first language and providing tailored communication methods, such as face-to-face meetings, emails, and text messages, for residents who are deaf or hard of hearing.
At Valley House, our Community Support service is designed to empower individuals and families to successfully transition to independent living. We provide the practical assistance, emotional support, and essential skills needed to build a stable and fulfilling life in the community.
