Business Details
50 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Support for Autism and Learning Disabilities in the UK
Established in 1976, we pioneered person-centred support for autistic individuals and people with learning disabilities, enabling them to lead ordinary lives in local communities. Our approach prioritises choice, control, and independence, with tailored support plans co-produced alongside individuals, families, and professionals. As a not-for-profit housing association and support provider, we collaborate with half of all UK local authorities, delivering services to over 30,000 people annually.Our 7,000-strong workforce specialises in complex needs, including forensic support, health management, and transition from institutional care. Guided by values of dignity and inclusion, we champion disability rights through advocacy, education, and innovative partnerships.
Services
Daily Living Support
Housing Solutions
Employment Assistance
Complex Needs Care
Short Breaks
Transition Support
Health Management
Family Partnerships
Advocacy Services
Community Integration
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We've specialised in learning disability support since 1976 with a 93% client satisfaction rate
- Our person-centred approach co-produces support plans with individuals and families
- We operate under strict CQC regulations with 'Good' rating outcomes
- Nationwide network covering 50% of UK local authorities
- Integrated housing and support services with 7,000 trained professionals
Associations and certifications
- Great Place to Work
- CQC rated 'Good'
What people say
Personalised support
Compassionate staff
Effective partnerships
Positive outcomes
Reliable service
Services
Daily Living Support
We provide tailored assistance with daily activities, promoting independence while respecting individual preferences. Our trained support workers help with personal care, household tasks, and community engagement. This service enables people to maintain their chosen lifestyle within familiar surroundings.
Housing Solutions
Our specialist housing services offer safe, accessible accommodation with flexible support levels. Properties include shared houses, flats, and self-contained units across urban and rural locations. We work closely with tenants to ensure homes reflect their personal tastes and accessibility requirements.
Employment Assistance
We help individuals develop work skills and access employment opportunities through tailored job coaching. Our employment specialists collaborate with local businesses to create inclusive workplaces. This includes pre-employment training, workplace adjustments, and ongoing support.
Complex Needs Care
Our expert teams support people with complex health needs, forensic requirements, or behaviours of distress. Using evidence-based approaches, we create safety plans and positive behaviour support strategies. This service includes specialist assessments and multi-disciplinary team collaboration.
Short Breaks
We offer flexible respite care options providing temporary relief for primary carers. Our short break services maintain continuity of care while offering new experiences. Accommodation ranges from home-based visits to specialist facilities with accessible activities.
People
Ben Hallam-Barr
Operations Director
Leading North Central operations with 15+ years experience in disability services. Committed to person-centred care and community integration. Holds Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care.
Lisa Graham
Operations Director
North East operations lead with expertise in service transformation. Advocate for inclusive employment practices. Recognised for developing innovative support models that improve client autonomy and quality of life.
Claire Blake
Operations Director
South Yorkshire operations specialist focusing on housing and support integration. Promotes co-production with service users. Holds Advanced Management Programme certification from NHS Leadership Academy.
Richard Mears
Regional Managing Director
Regional leader with 20+ years in social care. Champions disability rights and systemic change. Instrumental in expanding services across Northern England while maintaining quality standards.
Michelle Debbabi
Operations Director
Wales operations director driving service excellence. Focuses on cultural competence and family partnerships. Developed award-winning initiatives improving access to support for autistic individuals.
Questions
What areas do you operate in?
We provide services across England, Wales, and parts of Scotland through regional offices. Local contacts are available for each area on our website.
Do you support people with complex needs?
Yes, we specialise in supporting individuals with complex health needs, forensic requirements, and behaviours of distress using evidence-based approaches.
How are support plans created?
Plans are co-produced with individuals, families, and professionals focusing on personal goals. Regular reviews ensure plans adapt to changing needs and aspirations.
What housing options are available?
We offer supported living schemes, shared houses, and self-contained flats. All properties are adapted to meet accessibility requirements with flexible support packages.
How do you ensure service quality?
Regular CQC inspections, internal audits, and continuous staff training maintain our standards. We implement feedback systems for service users and families.
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