When new residents move into a semi independent living project, they may feel vulnerable, or alone. So, providing a welcoming atmosphere is vital to starting things off on the right.
At Stepping Out, we have been setting up and managing semi independent living homes for almost five years. Thankfully, our history is peppered with positive outcomes for a number of both young people and adults who once lived in our semi independent homes.
When it comes to making such residents feel welcome, here are a few simple, but effective tips:
Have a Welcoming Committee
When a resident arrives, you can easily create a pleasant atmosphere by having some extra staff members present to welcome them.
Having a group of people invite the resident in, show them around, talk to them and perhaps make you a cup of tea, will certainly help calm their nerves. Friendliness from the first minute is key.
Offer Useful Information
When the resident arrives, it’s always helpful to offer local information. Thing like nearby train stations, bus routes, local shops and so forth.
After all, new residents usually find it difficult to adapt to new environments as it is, so information like this can really help ease them into their new surroundings.
Give Them Space
Many residents undergo long journeys to reach semi independent living projects. After welcoming them to the residence and offering some local information, it’s a good idea to give the new resident some space.
Show them to their room, let them unpack, and give them some quiet time. Naturally, this must be in line with the residents care plan, if there is indeed one in place.
All of these welcoming strategies are used by Stepping Out in one form or another – all to good effect.
About Stepping Out: We provide comprehensive semi independent living services throughout North London & Hertfordshire. Our projects are located close to transport links and local amenities, and are staffed up to 24 hours a day offering a high level, structured and supervised group living arrangement.
Do you have any suggestions or strategies for when it comes to introducing and enforcing house rules in semi independent living environments? Let us know in the comments below.
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