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Housing

UCP’s Housing Channel provides information on housing options, legal and policy issues, and resources on the civil rights of people with developmental, cognitive and physical disabilities regarding housing issues.

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Housing

Housing Options

Exploring Alternative Models in Supported Living

For thirteen years, UCP of MetroBoston has delivered Supported Living Services to individuals with physical disabilities using a case management model. This model is based on the independent living philosophy which provides individuals with the greatest amount of control over their lives by encouraging them to direct their individualized case management/coordinator supports. As a result of the project, UCP of MetroBoston has issued a report of the findings entitled Exploring Alternative Models in Supported Living.

Although many individuals have been supported through this model, serious flaws in this case management model of service delivery have emerged. Individuals with physical disabilities, their families and associated field professionals have reported a growing trend in potentially unsafe and unsatisfying living situations resulting in less than fulfilling lifestyles for many individuals with disabilities.

UCP of MetroBoston, in its commitment to provide services that meet the needs of individuals with disabilities, sought funding for the purpose of developing alternatives to the current model that will create increased options and opportunities for people with disabilities. Through the use of a questionnaire developed by project personnel, access to accessible, affordable, and safe housing, able-bodied supports, transportation, community membership, and opportunities for social outlets were all identified as areas significantly missing from the individuals surveyed.

The results of this project address and support a systems change approach to providing residential supports to individuals with disabilities. Although contradictory to the current philosophical ideology of independent living, the general response of individuals surveyed supports the creation of alternative ways in which to provide housing for people with disabilities that better meets the social and physical needs currently lacking in the system.