Supported Housing Scheme ‘Tailor-Made’ For People With Autism

People with autism in Waltham Forest will be able to live in a supported living environment and enjoy a more active role in the community thanks to a pioneering new scheme.

The supported housing scheme, developed by Waltham Forest Housing Association in partnership withh Waltham Forest Council, support provider Adepta, Frankham Consultancy and Tunstall, has a range of tailor-made design features.

They include an advanced sound-proofing system and anti-slam doors and telecare technology, which has been designed specifically for the individual needs of each tenant.

This means the size and finish of floor and wall tiles, the textures of floor coverings and colour schemes have all been carefully selected to give each resident as calming an environment as possible, in which to live.

Other safety design features include regulated water temperatures in taps to prevent scalding, easy accessible safety valves and bespoke kitchen layouts to help tenants cook for themselves more easily.

Durable fixtures and fittings have been used and designed using sustainable materials to  maximise the life cycle of each product. The Waltham Forest scheme has involved the residents through every step of the process.

User groups made up of professional social care staff, carers, service users and advocates were used to ensure everyone was involved in the design. The overall aims were to maximise space and provide a balance between meeting individuals needs and promoting communal living in the building.

Iain Duncan Smith, Chingford MP, said: “This is a marvellous concept and everyone involved is to be congratulated for bringing it through to completion. Autism is one of the undiscussed problems that face our community and this project will go a long way to help those affected by autism maintain their independence.”

Funding for the scheme was obtained through the Housing Corporation.