Promoting Independence
By David Ashton Jones, CEO of Homes Together (https://homestogether.co.uk)
Independence isn’t about doing everything alone – it’s about having the confidence and choice to live life in your own way. For disabled adults, finding that right balance between support and self direction is essential to living well.
Across the care sector, our goal is to create environments where people can develop practical skills, make decisions for themselves, and take pride in what they achieve.
When we view independence not as separation but as empowerment, we begin to see opportunities within daily care practice to build confidence and improve quality of life.
Building everyday confidence
Confidence often begins with small, everyday experiences. A 2024 study on accessible housing found clear links between autonomy and better wellbeing for disabled adults. Those living independently, or with minimal assistance, reported higher life satisfaction and lower levels of depression and loneliness than those in more restrictive settings. The message is clear; personal control over day to day life supports mental and emotional health.
Helping people gain independence means focusing on achievable goals that build confidence over time. Tasks such as planning meals, managing budgets, or learning public transport routes may seem simple, but they’re meaningful steps towards self belief. Even mistakes play an important role – learning by doing, even when things go wrong, often leads to the greatest progress.
Staff should work alongside service users to nurture these everyday skills while also maintaining a supportive safety net. The first step is giving people the skills to complete the task, but the second step is to let them put these into action. Progress looks different for everyone, but the principle remains the same that confidence grows best in an environment of patience, trust and encouragement.
Environments that encourage and empower
Accessibility and independence go hand in hand. The thoughtful design of a space, along with assistive technology, can make the difference between restriction and freedom, hesitation and confidence. Simple adjustments can empower people to carry out tasks safely and successfully.
Adaptive technology has proven particularly valuable. In kitchens, talking microwaves guide users through each step. Level indicators help service users pour drinks safely and one-cup kettles allow people to make a hot beverage at the press of a button, reducing both risk and reliance on others. For those more confident with technology, voice activated smart devices add a modern layer of convenience.
These tools are not about shortcuts, but about inclusion. Each adaptation removes a barrier and promotes participation. A well designed space changes the care environment from a place of assistance into a place of autonomy. When people have the freedom to carry out ordinary tasks in their own way, the entire experience of care becomes more dignified and fulfilling.
Independence through connection
We often think of independence as a solitary goal, but in reality, it thrives through connection. Relationships, shared activities, and community involvement all help people strengthen confidence and identity.
At Homes Together, we encourage service users to take part in things such as gardening, music time and community outings. These activities help build a sense of belonging. When someone feels recognised and included, their willingness to try new things naturally grows.
Being part of a community also gives people the chance to see their strengths reflected back through others. Feeling valued and contributing to shared goals builds confidence and self esteem. In turn, those positive feelings spill into other parts of life, reinforcing autonomy.
A shared journey
Supporting independence is something to build on gradually. It’s an ongoing partnership between individuals, carers, and the environment around them. When people have both the right support and the freedom to make their own choices, they thrive in ways that extend far beyond the tasks themselves.
Helping someone to live more independently isn’t about stepping back and letting them struggle alone. It’s about standing beside them to offer the tools and trust, as well as encouragement, so they can lead life on their own terms. That crucial balance of safety and freedom is at the very heart of person-centred care.
