Type of service: Supported living schemes

KeyRing's core service model is to provide supported living networks for vulnerable adults, primarily with a learning disability, and which includes elements of autism in virtually every one of our 100 networks in England and Wales. The model is based on nine members (service users) living in close proximity, enjoying support from a tenth volunteer member, and further support from a team of KeyRing workers, creating independence, peer support and shared community skills. Our Care Quality Commission (CQC)-registered service in Southwark (London) is wholly autism-specific, providing 24/7 accommodation-based care and support for two brothers in their late-teens with autism, severe learning disability, no verbal communication, and both displaying behaviours that challenge services. Our approach for service users with autism is to form a multi-discipline team with input from relevant psychologists and specialists, and with specialist schools and colleges. We utilise communication tools such as makaton and Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). Our referrals are received from Local Authority (LA) learning disability and transition commissioning teams. Volunteers may be accepted to work with the service users.

Aimed at: Adult

Specialisms: Generic

Other specialisms: Challenging behaviour, Learning disability