Beyond the Family Home: Preparing Young Adults for Supported Independence

What does “supported independence” really mean?

Supported independence is the bridge between family care and living on your own. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t mean that you are left alone to do everything by yourself. Rather, it’s about having the right supports, training and confidence to manage life with growing autonomy.

At Claro, we see supported independence as a partnership: the young person, their family, clinicians, and support team working together to co-design a plan that builds both skill and self-belief.

Why is co-design so important for independent living programs?

When young adults help design their own life skills programs, they learn faster and stay engaged longer.

Co-design means participants aren’t passive learners—they’re co-creators. Families contribute deep personal insights; allied health professionals bring evidence-based frameworks; support workers provide practical experience.

Together, this collaboration creates a roadmap that’s relevant, empowering, and grounded in real life.

It’s the heart of Claro’s approach: Confidence through collaboration.

What are the essential independent living skills to focus on?

While practical abilities like cooking, budgeting, and cleaning are important, true independence goes further.

Key areas include:

• Decision-making and self-advocacy – learning to express preferences and make informed choices.
• Community navigation – using transport, accessing services, and building local networks.
• Daily living routines – managing schedules, health, and self-care.
• Emotional resilience – understanding and managing the ups and downs of change.

Our programs blend practical skill-building with personal development to create lasting confidence.

How does Claro’s ‘Confidence in Complexity’ framework help?

Independence can be complex—especially for individuals with high physical or health-related support needs. Claro’s Confidence in Complexity model ensures every participant has:

• Clinical oversight – nurse-led support planning to ensure health and safety.
• Continuity of care – consistent staff who know the person and their routines.
• Personalised planning – co-designed programs that evolve with progress.
• Assistive technology integration – tools and home adaptations that enhance autonomy.

It’s independence built on certainty, expertise, and trust.

How can families prepare for the transition from home to supported living?

1. Start early. Explore Supported Independent Living (SIL) or Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) options before the move.
2. Assess readiness. Identify strengths and growth areas with your support coordinator.
3. Trial independence. Short-term stays or respite programs offer safe practice environments.
4. Co-design a plan. Include funding, equipment, and goals in one integrated plan.

Preparation turns uncertainty into confidence, for both families and participants.

What role does technology play in modern independence programs?

Technology can empower choice and control. Examples include:

• Voice-activated devices for managing lights, doors, and appliances.
• Digital schedules and medication reminders.
• Apps for budgeting, communication and safety check-ins.

At Claro, assistive tech is integrated into our SDA homes and skill-building programs, helping people live independently with confidence.

What outcomes can young adults expect from co-designed independence programs?

Co-designed programs fulfil two important roles: they both teach AND transform.

Participants often report:

• Greater confidence managing daily tasks.
• Increased participation in study, work, or community life.
• Improved wellbeing and reduced family stress.

The key measure of success? When individuals say, “I feel ready to live my life, my way.”