Adult and Community Services
Supporting People Programme
The Supporting People programme works to improve the quality of life for vulnerable people in Barking and Dagenham and help them to achieve greater independence and choice. It is a national programme which was initiated by Communities and Local Government and came into operation on 1 April 2003.
What is Supporting People?
Supporting People is a way of funding and monitoring services delivered by teams within the council or by other organisations, such as charities or Housing Associations. All the services aim to help people access or sustain safe and settled housing that maximises their opportunities and personal independence.
Supporting People funds the support provided by staff and overheads of managing them and running the scheme.
The services are either delivered in specialist accommodation - such as temporary accommodation for homeless households, or sheltered housing for older people - or are provided by a support worker visiting someone in their own home. This support could include:
- Gaining access to health services
- Information and advice
- Advocacy (someone to speak for you if you can not do this yourself)
- Help to claim welfare benefits
- Help to get other services and contact community organisations
- Training in life skill (such as managing money) and social skills; and
- Support and help to get involved in the community and make friends
What does the Supporting People Team do?|
Who can apply to receive a Supporting People Service?|
A list of support agencies and organisations available that can provide further advice and support on Supporting People.
Do you need Housing Support? 
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Download an easy to read guide on the Supporting People program.
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