Hi Sheila

We are a new Supported Living Accommodation working with people with learning disabilities (years plus) in Essex boroughs, currently we have the accommodation, and all the necessary documents that required to operate, but we do not have clients, and have not get a contract with any local authority.
Please do you know any website that we can advertise our organisation as Care Bank to all the Boroughs?

Thanks,

Linda

Answered by Sheila Scott

Dear Linda,

I can only make my personal suggestions. There isn’t a handbook on this!

I think I would begin by having an opening event. Invite the people you know from the local authority plus local Councillors. Also ask local GPs and anyone else you know that might be interested including representatives from Mencap.

Also ask your local newspaper to come and encourage them to bring a photographer.

When people come for instance a local Councillor, show them around and do ask them who they think you should be speaking to at the Council.

You might also try to make contact with the Learning Disability leads in local CCGs and your nearest NHS Trust.

You need to build up a list of contacts who you can stay in touch with.

As well as your local Councils you might also begin to market your facility to some of the East London Boroughs.

The key thing in all of this is to be talking to the person who makes the decisions about supported living.

I wish you good luck and I hope you are successful.

Sheila