Supported Living & Specialist Supported Living

Inclusive homes for people with additional and complex needs.

Across the UK, demand for Supported Living (SL) and Specialist Supported Living (SSL) is far outstripping supply. Corford Properties delivers accessible, community-based homes that keep people close to the family, friends and networks who matter most.

Bright, accessible UK home interior with level-access kitchen and open-plan living
Why It Matters

A home of your own — close to the people who matter.

For thousands of adults with learning disabilities, autism, physical disabilities or complex needs, the right supported home is the difference between a full, independent life in their community — and being placed in a hospital, residential setting, or many miles from family.

The UK has a serious and growing shortfall of suitable housing. Corford Properties is committed to being part of the solution.

The Numbers

The scale of the supply & demand gap.

Independent research commissioned by the National Housing Federation in 2024 set out just how far behind the UK has fallen — and what's needed to catch up.

167,000+

more supported homes needed in England by 2040

National Housing Federation, 2024

33%

increase in supported housing demand by 2040

NHF / Altair, 2024

509,873

supported homes in England in 2023 — far short of need

NHF, 2024

~1.5m

people with a learning disability in the UK — many without a home that meets their needs

Mencap

Sources: National Housing Federation, Supported housing in England: Estimating need and costs to 2040 (April 2024); Mencap. Without intervention, the NHF estimates a further £33.9bn of development is required by 2040 to meet need.

Definitions

What is Supported Living and Specialist Supported Living?

Supported Living (SL)

An adult lives in their own home — usually on their own tenancy — with personalised care and support brought in to help them live as independently as possible. Housing and support are kept separate, giving the resident genuine choice and rights.

Specialist Supported Living (SSL)

Purpose-designed or adapted homes for people with higher-level physical, learning, sensory, or behavioural needs. Properties are built or remodelled around the individual — with accessible layouts, assistive technology, and space for staff to provide 24/7 support where required.

UK community neighbourhood
The Supply & Demand Gap

Need is rising. Delivery isn't keeping up.

Demand is rising fast

More adults with learning disabilities, autism, physical disabilities and complex needs are living longer and seeking independent lives. Demographic change and the closure of long-stay institutions continue to push demand up year on year.

Supply is not keeping pace

New supported homes are not being delivered at anywhere near the rate required. The result is long waiting lists, out-of-area placements, and people stuck in residential or hospital settings far from home.

Out-of-area placements

When suitable local housing isn't available, individuals are often placed many miles from family and the support networks they rely on — undermining wellbeing, independence and outcomes.

Quality and tenure matter

Truly inclusive supported living needs the right standard of property, the right tenancy rights, and a long-term commitment from a landlord who understands the sector.

Our Commitment

How Corford supports the sector.

We endeavour to be a long-term, responsible landlord and development partner for Supported Living and Specialist Supported Living — putting the resident, their family, and the community at the heart of every scheme.

Discuss a Scheme With Us
  • Acquire and regenerate suitable buildings local to the people who need them
  • Design accessible, adaptable homes shaped by the resident's needs and preferences
  • Work in partnership with families, care providers, local authorities and integrated care boards
  • Locate homes close to existing family, friends and community support networks
  • Provide secure, long-term tenancies with the right standard of professional landlord service
  • Embed assistive technology and energy-efficient design from day one
Partnerships

Who we work with.

Specialist Supported Living only works when housing, care and community come together. We collaborate with the people closest to the resident.

Families & individuals
CQC-registered care providers
Local authorities & ICBs
Housing associations & investors
Get In Touch

Have someone you're trying to find a home for?

Whether you're a family, a care provider, a commissioner or an investor — we'd love to hear what you're looking for and explore how we can help.