For local authorities

Working together to create positive futures

At The Independent Living Project, we understand that finding the right home and support for a young person is an important decision.

Make a referral enquiry
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Our Open Door projects

Through our Open Door projects, we provide safe, nurturing and high-quality supported accommodation across West Yorkshire, helping young people develop the confidence, stability and practical skills they need to move towards independence.

We are committed to working closely with local authorities, social workers and other professionals to ensure every placement is carefully considered, individually planned and focused on achieving positive outcomes.

Who we support and what is provided

Who
Young people aged 16 to 18 at the point of admission, with the opportunity to remain in placement up to the age of 25 through our Staying Closer Model
Accommodation
Fully furnished, self-contained, single person apartments, each with its own kitchen, bathroom, living space and bedroom
Support
24-hour on-site staffing, with personalised, person-centred support
Outreach
Needs-led outreach support for young people who have been allocated their own tenancy
Areas
Four homes in Kirklees, West Yorkshire: Spring Lodge, The Mill, School Street and Warwick Road
Funding
Financial support is provided by the responsible local authority

Referrals and admissions

We welcome referrals from local authorities for young people aged 16 to 18 at the point of admission, with opportunities to remain in placement up to the age of 25 through our Staying Closer Model, where continued support is appropriate.

Every referral is carefully assessed through our Placement Matching and Impact Assessment, considering the young person's individual needs, aspirations, risks and desired outcomes, alongside the suitability of the accommodation and the needs of other residents.

Our priority is to ensure that every placement is safe, appropriate and provides the right environment for the young person to thrive.

Referral, assessment and planning

Referral enquiry

The local authority or responsible body contacts us about the young person.

Placement Matching and Impact Assessment

We assess the young person's needs, aspirations, risks and desired outcomes, and the needs of other residents.

Individual support plan

If a placement goes ahead, an individual support plan is agreed and updated regularly.

Reviews and move-on

Monthly feedback and client reviews, and a move-on plan made with partner agencies.

A thoughtful approach to transitions

We believe a successful placement begins long before moving day.

Through our Staying Closer Model, we take a proactive and relationship-focused approach to transitions, helping young people feel informed, involved and confident about their move.

Where possible, our dedicated Transitional Worker begins working with the young person 3 to 6 months before admission, allowing time to:

  • Build positive, trusting relationships with staff and their future key worker
  • Visit their new home and become familiar with the environment
  • Meet other young people and take part in activities
  • Explore their wishes, needs and aspirations
  • Develop practical independent living skills
  • Contribute to their placement planning and personalise their new home

We work collaboratively with social workers, current placements and other professionals to ensure a coordinated transition, with the young person's voice at the heart of every decision.

Supporting successful placements

Our commitment doesn't end when a young person moves in.

With 24-hour on-site staffing, personalised support and a strong focus on positive relationships, we aim to provide the stability, encouragement and guidance young people need to build confidence and work towards their individual goals.

We recognise that every young person's journey is different, and our approach reflects this through flexible, responsive and person-centred support.

What placements include

Support is needs-led and set out in each young person's individual support plan. It covers:

  • Sustaining a tenancy
  • Managing household bills and budgets
  • Domestic tasks: cleaning, washing and cooking simple meals
  • Access to education, training or employment
  • Access to appropriate benefits
  • Access to health services
  • Help to access other agencies, including drugs, alcohol, risky behaviours and relationships
  • Leisure and social activities
  • Re-connecting with family, friends and the local community
  • Taking responsibility for their own development and decisions

Young people are involved in developing the service.

Safeguarding

Staff are subject to enhanced DBS checks. A needs and risk assessment is completed before any placement, and young people have access to a 24-hour emergency support system.

Make a referral enquiry

We welcome enquiries from local authorities and professionals looking for suitable supported accommodation. Our team is available to discuss individual needs, placement suitability and the referral process. Please do not include the young person's name or other identifying details.

Because the right placement isn't just about finding somewhere to live. It's about creating the foundations for a positive and independent future.

A brief outline of needs and timing. No names, dates of birth or addresses, please.

Your enquiry goes straight to the Open Door team. You can also phone or email us using the details on this page.

We will only use your details to reply to you.