The residential care sector for people with a learning disability in Essex is long established and has provided support to people with a learning disability for a number of years.

In line with the national approach, new services for people with a learning disability are increasingly focused on tenancy based accommodation and shared lives to maximise independence and support individuals having an 'ordinary life' in their community.

The number of adults having their support provided within tenancy based accommodation has steadily increased in Essex whilst the number of adults having their support met in residential services has decreased. Referrals to residential homes for placements are now primarily focused on the very complex end of the support spectrum, for people whose support and safety needs cannot be met within supported living at present and/or for a temporary period to allow for appropriate planning to take place.

Essex County Council recognises the valuable contribution that residential homes have made to the lives of adults, their carers' and networks and continues to work with providers to ensure that good quality standards are maintained.