Starts at Home Day 2023

Starts at Home Day 2023 takes place on 1 September. It's a chance to connect with politicians and highlight the need for government investment in good quality supported housing, as well as a commitment to strategic local planning.

This year, the campaign is focussed on two areas of policy change: long-term funding and decisions about care. You can find out more here

Our Managing Director Les Warren visited a supported living scheme in New Malden, south west London to meet our tenants Graham and Edward (pictured left to right, Graham, Les, Edward), and their support team from Balance. He was joined by three local councillors, Mark Durrant, Lesley Heap and Robert Kim, who have a keen interest in how they can support the work that we do as the scheme is in their ward.

Meeting our tenants

Edward led a tour of his home, and proudly showed off his room, with the Mamma Mia artwork on the wall (he’s a big Abba fan). “It was great to hear from Edward about the activities he likes such as swimming and going to the theatre,” says Les Warren. “Edward and Graham have built up their life skills and cook together for example. They check in on each other and are good friends. This shows how successful supported living can be.”

Support team leader Gemma explained to the councillors how important it is that tenants like Graham and Edward have that social interaction. “It’s a worrying trend that many adults with a learning disability or autistic people live in an isolated way in their rooms, without being encouraged to mix or socialise together,” she explains.

Councillor Lesley Heap said: “Thank you for inviting us.  It was great to meet Edward and Graham in their lovely home setting and to meet Les. We gained a greater understanding of the work RWP does.”

RWP Managing Director Les Warren says: “We play a crucial role in the housing sector, providing specialised supported housing. We’re ensuring adults with support needs can live independently and make their own choices.”