Accessing our Services

How do I access Community Lives services?

Most people access our services following an assessment by their local authority Adult Learning Disability Team. 

If you live in Swansea or Neath Port Talbot, the first step is to contact your local Adult Social Care team and request a Care and Support Assessment. This assessment will explore your needs, outcomes and support requirements and determine whether you are eligible for funded support services. 

How do I fund my support?

There are two ways that support with Community Lives can be funded: 

Local Authority Funding:
Following a Care and Support Assessment, your Local Authority may agree to fund some or all of your support if you meet the eligibility criteria. This is the most common route for accessing our services. 

NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC):
People with significant or complex health needs may be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC). If eligible, the NHS can fund the full cost of a person's care and support package, whether this is provided in supported living, residential care or another community setting. CHC is based on assessed health needs rather than financial circumstances. If you think you or a family member may be eligible for Continuing NHS Healthcare, speak to your social worker, care manager, GP or other healthcare professional who can advise on the assessment process. 

How do I contact the appropriate local authority?

Swansea: 

The Swansea Community Learning Disability Team works with adults who have a learning disability and can provide assessments and support planning, including access to supported living, respite, day opportunities and residential services. 

Community Learning Disability Team (Swansea):  

  • Telephone: 01792 614100
  • Email: CLDTDutyDesk@swansea.gov.uk 

    Neath Port Talbot:  

    Adults living in Neath Port Talbot can contact Adult Social Services through the Single Point of Contact to request advice, information and a Care and Support Assessment. 

    Neath Port Talbot Adult Social Services: 

    • Telephone: 01639 686802 
    • Email: spoc@npt.gov.uk 

      The Process

      "

      Contact Adult Social Services (Swansea or Neath Port Talbot)

      "

      Care and Support Assessment

      "

      Eligible for Support?

      "

      Funding Agreed (Local Authority or NHS CHC)

      "

      If Community Lives can meet the assessed needs, it may be included among the support options available

      "

      Community Lives Assessment and Support Planning

      "

      Support Begins

      Contact Community Lives

      Social workers and care managers will usually provide information about a range of support providers rather than recommend a specific organisation. This ensures that individuals and families can make informed choices about the support that is right for them. 

      If it's been identified by the Social Services referral system that we can meet the needs of your loved one, Social Services will inform you and as a multidisciplinary team we will continue with the process.  

      Also, you are welcome to contact Community Lives directly whether you're an individual looking for support, a family member exploring options, or a professional seeking further information, our team can talk you through: 

      • The services we offer 
      • The referral and assessment process 
      • Funding options and eligibility
      • Current availability 
      • How we can support you to achieve your goals and live a fulfilling life

      Get in touch using our Contact form to learn more about Community Lives and discuss how we may be able to support you on your journey. 

      There is no obligation, and we're always happy to have an informal conversation to help you understand your options.