Our guide to supporting people living with autism

At Lifeways, we understand that autism is only one part of a person's identity - it should never define or limit their future. Our role is to provide personalised support that recognises individual strengths, helping each person build a life that reflects their ambitions, interests, and sense of belonging. You can learn more about this in our guide to supported living for people with autism.

This guide shares how we work alongside autistic people to design flexible, individualised support that adapts as needs change. By taking the time to listen and collaborate, we encourage people to shape their own routines, make meaningful choices, and take positive steps towards greater independence.

This downloadable guide provides an overview of the different ways we support autistic people, real stories that highlight what’s possible, and insight into how Lifeways creates environments where people feel valued and empowered. To take the first steps towards finding supported living for your loved one, visit our supported living for adults with autism page.

Supporting people living with autism

Autism affects each person in different ways and can make everyday life much more challenging. We offer tailored, practical, and emotional support to create positive outcomes at every stage of a person’s journey.

We spend quality time with the individual, their family members and care professionals to gain an understanding of the challenges the person may have already overcome, along with setting clear development objectives relating to their autism which we focus on when providing support. Our aim is for people to self-direct their support as much as possible, helping them to exercise choice in all aspects of their daily lives.

Our experienced teams are trained in behavioural communication, and so where individuals may have been previously described as exhibiting behaviours that challenge in certain situations, we believe in taking a proactive approach and turning the focus onto understanding what the individual is trying to communicate.

We incorporate the TEACCH approach in our support, which relates to structuring and organising schedules to encourage focus and routine, and also use the SPELL framework which emphasises the importance of creating calm and ordered environments.

• Bespoke support plans
• TEACCH approach
• SPELL framework
• Ongoing reviews

Supporting people living with autism

At Lifeways we understand that autism is just one part of a person, and doesn’t define who they are. Our focus is on supporting the individual ability of each person, and we’re proud to help people lead more fulfilling lives, often achieving the most amazing things.

Make a referral or arrange a visit

Learn more about the independent living that we provide, make a referral or arrange a visit by contacting Lifeways:

• Call 0333 321 4881
• Email referrals@lifeways.co.uk

Our support options

We offer a range of support options including supported living and residential homes that have been designed to meet a wide range of needs. Our support is completely flexible, starting from just a few hours a week through to 24/7.

• Supported living
• Residential care
• Specially adapted housing
• Assistive technology available

Craig’s story

Craig lives with learning disabilities and is on the autistic spectrum. In his mid-teens, he was bullied which affected his self-esteem.

“Craig was having a very difficult time”, says his mum, Sandra. “My biggest worry was about the level of support Craig needed.” Finding the right support through Lifeways has changed Craig’s life. His support worker has helped him learn how to use specialist software to organise his daily schedule, keeping track of his activities week by week and planning for the future.

Fascinated by computers and meticulous about record keeping, this has helped to improve Craig’s confidence. Now he goes to the local youth club and quiz nights at his local pub, and he plays snooker. “We went together on the train to the seaside and had an amazing day out cycling and fishing,” says Craig. “The list of new things he’s tackling seems endless!” says Sandra.

 

Download guide