Supported Housing Strategy 2026 to 2031 - People with mental health conditions

What "home" means to people

Across engagement activities, people with mental health needs described “home” as fundamentally about safety, privacy, stability and predictability. Home was closely linked to emotional security and recovery, shaped by past experiences of trauma, exploitation, homelessness or unsafe living environments.

Participants emphasised the importance of feeling safe and protected, having control over their own space, and knowing that support is available when needed.

"Having my own front door."

"Having my own kitchen, bedroom and living room is very important. I need my own private space, but I also like knowing people are around."

"Feeling safe is top priority."

"I did not want to ask for help in case they sectioned me. I thought if I said I was struggling I might lose my home and end up back in hospital."

For many, home was not simply a place to live, but a space where they could feel secure enough to rebuild confidence and manage daily life.

People described current supported accommodation positively because it provided a sense of security and predictability that they had not experienced previously.

Participants also spoke about the importance of having support available when needed, while recognising that access to support could be variable. Some described feeling hesitant to ask for help, particularly where past experiences had created fear that seeking support could lead to hospital admission or loss of their home. This highlights the importance of trusted, trauma informed support relationships alongside housing.

Our strategy will prioritise housing that supports recovery, reduces anxiety about future moves, avoids re-traumatisation, and enables people to live in safe, well connected environments with support that is reliable, trusted and proportionate.

Current provison

Estimated need of supported housing by 2039 (units)