Core and Cluster

Independent Living with a Sense of Community

At Person Centred Living, we believe everyone deserves the chance to live as independently as possible while enjoying the support and connections that come from being part of a community. Our core and cluster model of supported living is designed for adults with learning disabilities and autism who want to enjoy their own space, privacy, and autonomy—while also having access to shared support, resources, and meaningful social opportunities.

What is Core and Cluster Supported Living?

The core and cluster model combines individual, self-contained accommodation with shared communal spaces and a “core” support team based onsite or nearby. Each person lives in their own flat or house, maintaining privacy and independence, but is never isolated—there’s a friendly community atmosphere and professional support always within reach.

This approach suits people who:

  • Want their own home, with their own front door
  • Benefit from daily or regular support, but don’t need staff with them 24/7
  • Enjoy social interaction, shared activities, and a sense of belonging
  • Value both independence and safety

How Does It Work?

In a core and cluster setting, several individual homes or flats are grouped together in one development or close proximity. A dedicated support team is available to help with:

  • Personal care and daily living skills
  • Medication management and health appointments
  • Building life skills and independence
  • Social inclusion and community engagement
  • Crisis or emergency support

There’s usually a shared space—like a lounge or garden—where residents can gather for group activities, meals, or just a chat. Support is always tailored: some people might want more involvement with the group, others prefer more independence.

Who Can Benefit?

Core and cluster supported living is ideal for:

  • Adults with learning disabilities or autism who want to live more independently
  • People moving on from family homes, residential care, or hospital settings
  • Those who value community and friendship, but still want their own space
  • Individuals needing a flexible level of support—able to increase or decrease as life changes
  • People keen to build skills for greater independence

We welcome adults from all backgrounds and work closely with families, advocates, and local authorities to ensure a smooth transition.

Our Approach: Person-Centred and Flexible

Everything we do at Person Centred Living starts with you. Our team will:

  • Listen to your goals, preferences, and concerns
  • Create a personalised support plan based on your needs and ambitions
  • Introduce you to your new community and support team
  • Help you settle in, make friends, and get involved at your own pace
  • Review and adapt your support regularly
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We aim to empower every individual—helping you build confidence, try new things, and make choices about your own life.

Core and Cluster Services Include:

  • Individualised support: Assistance with daily routines, personal care, medication, and practical tasks, always adapted to each person
  • Social opportunities: Group meals, clubs, community outings, and events to encourage friendships and reduce isolation
  • Skills building: Help with budgeting, cooking, shopping, travel, and using public transport
  • Wellbeing and safety: Support with mental and physical health, safeguarding, and responding to any concerns or emergencies
  • Flexible staffing: Our “core” support team is on hand 24/7 if required, but only as involved as you want them to be
  • Family involvement: Open communication with families and advocates, regular updates, and involvement in planning and reviews

Benefits of Core and Cluster Living

  • Independence: Your own space, routines, and choices
  • Community: Social connection, friendship, and shared experiences
  • Safety: Professional support always nearby, with flexible levels of input
  • Personal development: Opportunities to build skills, try new things, and set personal goals
  • Cost-effectiveness: Shared support resources can make this model more affordable than full-time one-to-one support

Our Team & Quality Standards

All staff at Person Centred Living are trained in person-centred care, safeguarding, communication, and positive behaviour support. Our registered managers oversee each service, with regular reviews to ensure safety, satisfaction, and ongoing development.

We value continuity—so you’ll see familiar, friendly faces who know your preferences, routines, and aspirations.

Working in Partnership

We work closely with:

  • Local authorities and housing associations
  • Social workers, advocates, and families
  • Health professionals and community services

This joined-up approach ensures every aspect of your care, housing, and wellbeing is well-managed and consistent.

Flexible, Responsive Packages

Your needs and goals might change over time. Our core and cluster support can be increased or reduced, and we’re always ready to respond to new opportunities or challenges. Whether you need extra help with a new job, managing your health, or making new friends, we’re here for you.

Why Choose Person Centred Living?

  • Decades of experience in supported living for learning disabilities and autism
  • A person-centred, empowering approach
  • Flexible support and a strong sense of community
  • Safe, modern homes in attractive locations
  • Local teams with national coverage

Next Steps

If you or a loved one are interested in core and cluster supported living, contact Person Centred Living today for a confidential chat and free assessment. We’ll help you explore your options, meet the team, and plan your next steps towards greater independence and community life.

Explore the
Group

The Specialist Homecare Group, encompassing Home Not Hospital, Complex Care Choices, and Person Centred Living, stands as a beacon of dedicated, comprehensive care in the community.

By offering a spectrum of tailored services ranging from intensive complex care to fostering independence and quality of life, this cohesive network of care providers ensures every individual’s health and well-being are managed with expertise, compassion, and a deep commitment to delivering care that feels like home, not hospital.

With a focus on personalisation and respect for each client’s unique journey, the group redefines the standards of homecare excellence.

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