Tori’s story: How supported living changed my life for the better

Tori is a bright, bubbly, and determined woman who knows what she wants from life. Living in shared accommodation for many years, she felt restricted and unable to truly flourish. What she really wanted was a place to call her own—a space where she could be independent, make her own choices, and feel at home.

With the support of her dedicated social worker and a team of compassionate support workers, Tori embarked on a journey towards independent living. Right from the start, she was in the driving seat, making decisions about her future. Her social worker played a key role in bringing together the right people and resources to ensure Tori’s move was smooth and centred around her needs and wishes.

After careful planning, Tori moved into her very own flat, and her world transformed. The new home was perfect—it was close to her sister, allowing them to spend more time together. Tori quickly settled in, embracing the newfound freedom to invite friends over, enjoy her hobbies, and explore her local community. With support in place when she needed it, she was able to take control of her daily life, making choices that made her happy.

About her move, Tori said:

Now I have my little house for one. I love it. I’ve never been on my own before and it’s nice. Everybody says I’ve changed, in the good. And I’m just getting independent more and more every day. I recommend people to think about supported living because you will change. I am much happier.

Tori has now been in her home for three years. In that time, her life has changed and evolved. She has some new friends, new activities and new Personal Assistants.  At her recent review, she reported that she is doing lots of familiar and new activities such as going to a sewing class, crafting, choir, yoga and seeing her sister. She has enjoyed many community visits including Wisley lights, a pantomime on ice, the cinema and garden centre visits. Tori loves keeping in touch with her friends by visiting them and having them for tea.

Like anyone else, Tori’s life has had its ups and downs and challenges. She has had to cope with challenges such as Personal Assistants moving on or difficulties in getting to some of her support sessions. But she’s developing problem-solving skills and building resilience to continue living her life as she chooses.

Watch Surrey County Council film about Tori’s story