Moving into a home that truly meets your needs can be life-changing. For Chantelle, having the right support in a home designed for independent living has allowed her to gain confidence, build friendships, and take steps towards employment.

Chantelle is one of our Resonance Supported Homes Fund tenants living in Witney, Oxfordshire. Before moving in, she faced challenges finding a stable and suitable place to live—one that offered both independence and the support she needed. Thanks to the fund’s partnership with Golden Lane Housing, Chantelle now shares a five-bedroom home with housemates, all of whom have learning disabilities or are autistic people.

Chantelle shares what she loves about her new home: “I have freedom! What I love about my new home is the freedom that I get, that I can go out on the buses on my own and with my friends and there is a community bus that takes me into town and we go food shopping because the Co-op is only just down the road. And to the charity shops, have a wander around the charity shops. This house is not very far into town, it’s 15-20 minutes on the bus and I can get the bus back.”

This newfound independence has boosted Chantelle’s confidence, and she is now looking for a part-time job. Living in a home within a local community with easy access to public transport and local amenities has given her the opportunity to explore more and to also stay connected with her friends and family. She and her housemates, including her long-time friend Hannah, are also planning to host summer barbecues, to meet their new neighbours, and further strengthen their local ties.

Watch Chantelle’s Story

Watch Chantelle tell her story and the impact of living in a home that supports her independence, here:

Why the Resonance Supported Homes Fund is Needed

Chantelle’s story is just one example of why the Resonance Supported Homes Fund exists. The fund was created to address the severe shortage of suitable housing for people with learning disabilities and autistic people. Across the UK:

• 1.5 million people have a learning disability.
• Over 2,000 people with learning disabilities or who are autistic are currently living in hospital inpatient facilities, rather than in homes of their own.
• 35% of people with learning disabilities live with family or friends, often because they have no alternative housing options.

Since its launch in 2020, the fund has made a significant impact, with 16 properties in its portfolio and 25 tenants housed. The focus remains on providing homes that not only offer security but also foster independence and social inclusion.

The success of the fund’s approach is evident in stories like Chantelle’s. With 89% of tenants stating that their home has helped them build good support networks and relationships, it’s clear that the right housing can transform lives.

As the fund continues to grow, it aims to provide even more people with access to quality homes and tailored support. By working closely with housing partners, local authorities, and investors, Resonance is helping to create long-term solutions that empower people to live the lives they choose.