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Housing for people with a learning disability or autistic people

Housing arrangements for people with a learning disability and autistic people have come a long way since the 1960s, when people were housed in institutions that kept them apart from the rest of society. This is a result of national government and local authorities working together with people with a learning disability and their families to move towards a system founded on the principle of choice and control, personalised services and independent living.


With support, people with a learning disability and autistic people can most often find a place to call home by renting or buy housing in the same way as other people, or they can move into to specialist housing with care and support, like supported living or shared lives, when more support is needed. Sometimes people decide to continue live with family members. The key point is that where people live should be their choice. If they lack capacity advocacy support may be needed to help clarify what is in the best interests of the person.

There is a great deal that local councils alongside partners can do to support people to achieve their goals. Where the person lives, who they live with, the design of their home and how they are supported (including in an environment that they are comfortable with) can have a significant impact on wellbeing and behaviour.

Shared home ownership won’t be right for everyone, but we do know that it can work well for some people who may have very specific housing requirements. We know, for example, that individuals with complex needs often require tailored solutions that will minimise the triggers for distressed behaviour, in some cases with significant adaptations and/or modifications, and that location and environment are especially important in achieving sustainable housing solutions for people.

Below we have collected a range of resources to help councils transform the local housing offer for people with a learning disability or autistic people.

Case studies

A strategic assessment of the accommodation with support needs for people with a learning disability, autism and mental health conditions 2020-2030 Sheffield, Doncaster, and Rotherham Transforming Care Partnership 2021

Resources