New supported living service in Swindon

Milestones Trust has announced the opening of a new supported living service in Stratton St Margaret.

The trust says it will provide exceptional care for three individuals with learning disabilities. The service is the first to be opened by Milestones Trust in Swindon since the organisation’s merger with White Horse Care Trust in November 2024, and will focus on ensuring the people supported at the service have every opportunity to live their best lives.

The service marks a collaboration between Places for People who own the building, and Milestones Trust who provide support. 

In preparation for the move, Milestones staff have also worked in partnership with the people who will be living at the service and their families, to involve them in decisions affecting the design and decoration to ensure that it really does feel like home.

Equipped with modern amenities and staffed by a dedicated fully-trained team who are passionate about making a positive impact, the new supported living service is intended to deliver the positive outcomes Milestones says it is known for, maximising individual choice and independence.

One person who has moved in, Charlie, said: “I am very happy in my new house, and I am excited about living with two friends. I like my new house and my bedroom is the best!”

Service Manager Charlotte Radford said: "We are thrilled to be opening this new supported living service in Swindon. 

"Our goal is to create a supportive and empowering environment where people can thrive and I know that this new service will demonstrate our dedication to improving the quality of life for those we support."

Claire, mother of Tom, one of those who has moved in, said: “They say all good things come to those who wait. Ten years ago, Tom did a PowerPoint presentation at school. He was very clear that he wanted to live independently with his friends, and have a key to his own front door.

"Finally, that day has come and to say we are grateful is an understatement.
“The journey has not been easy, and the weekly two hour commute to get him to his new job as the move-in date goalpost kept on moving was challenging. However, it gave the support staff and Tom valuable time to get to know one another, so one must hold onto that (even though stress levels were at times through the roof!)

“After moving him into his super new home, seeing him with his friends, and observing his sense of ease with those supporting him, we drove away with real sense of accomplishment, and the knowledge that he has such an exciting time ahead of him.
“The commitment shown from Milestones, from those supporting him on the ground so to speak, to the team behind the scenes, has been exceptional. And we look forward to his continued development as they provide the support yet the space to let him grow.
“So, whilst there is for us a huge period of readjustment ahead, it comes with a deep, rooted knowledge that this is the right thing for Tom. How lucky we are.”

With all of its registered services rated as either Good or Outstanding by CQC, Milestones Trust says it has a long-standing reputation for excellence in providing support for adults with learning disabilities and adults with mental health needs. 

The opening of this new service in Swindon, it says, marks another step forward in the Trust's ongoing mission to deliver high-quality, person-centred care.