Independent living and housing

In short

• There are several housing options, including living with family, supported living, Shared Lives, and social or private renting.
• In England and Wales, councils must assess any adult who may have care and support needs. You do not need a diagnosis to ask.
• Travel pass rules differ by nation. In England, eligibility depends on your council's categories, and autism alone may not qualify.
• Travel training and budgeting support are often available through councils, colleges and charities.

Choosing where to live

Think about what you need day to day. Consider how much quiet space you need, how important routine is, what sensory needs you have, and whether you need help with cooking, money or getting around.

Common options include:

• Living with family. You can agree on space, routines and support in advance.
• Supported living. You have your own tenancy or home, with support from staff who visit or live nearby.
• Shared Lives. Approved carers offer a home or regular support in their own home. Councils run these schemes, and adults usually need a social care referral. Most councils arrange a trial period before a placement starts.
• Social renting. You rent from a council or housing association.
• Private renting. You can rent privately, with support if you need it.

Needs assessment

Section 9 of the Care Act 2014 says a council must assess any adult who may have needs for care and support, in England and Wales. The assessment looks at what you need. It does not depend on a diagnosis.

You can ask for an assessment by contacting your local council's adult social care team. Assessments are usually free. An assessment does not guarantee funded care, because the council checks eligibility separately.

You can bring someone with you, such as a friend, relative or advocate. If you care for someone, you can also ask the council for a carer's assessment of your own needs. This is set out in section 10 of the Care Act 2014.

Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own social care arrangements, so check with your local council or health and social care service.

Travel

In England, a disabled person's bus pass lets you travel for free on local buses if you are "eligible disabled" under the national rules. Councils apply the categories, and autism on its own may not be enough. Check your council's page and ask which category applies to you.

Some areas have time restrictions on when the pass can be used.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland run their own concessionary travel schemes. Check your national government's website for current rules.

Travel training

Travel training can help you learn to use buses, trains or routes independently. Some councils, colleges and schools offer it. Ask your school, college or council what is available near you.

Budgeting support

Budgeting and money skills help is available through some councils, colleges and local charities. Ask what courses or one-to-one support they offer, and whether they can help you check benefits or manage bills.

This guide is general information, not professional advice.