Golden Lane Housing (GLH) is dedicated to providing quality, specialist supported housing that enables people with a learning disability, including Down’s syndrome, to live fulfilling and independent lives. This case study highlights the positive impact of appropriate housing and support on the lives of Mila and Thomas, two tenants with Down’s syndrome who have successfully made the transition – Mila from her family home and Thomas from a residential learning college to independent living.

Mila and Thomas’s journey to independence

Mila (23) and Thomas (25) have known each other for 20 years, they attended school together in Mansfield. As they got older their relationship blossomed and on Christmas Eve December 2022, Thomas proposed to Mila. Understandably, they wanted to live in their own home but required the right housing and support to make it possible. With the help of their families, local commissioners and Golden Lane Housing, in December 2023, they moved into their shared home in a quiet residential area on the outskirts of Nottingham and Thera Trust was appointed to provide their support.

Their new home provides them with a safe, welcoming and comfortable space, where they can live independently while still receiving the support they need.

For both Mila and Thomas, this move was a significant step. Mila was previously living with her parents, while Thomas attended Portland College as part of their independent living programme. They now enjoy the autonomy of making their own choices—everything from decorating their home to planning their weekly activities—while knowing their families remain nearby for support when needed and they’re happy.

A life of meaningful engagement and inclusion

Since moving in, Mila has significantly gained in confidence, so much so she has found fulfilment through her job at a local supermarket, where she has been welcomed as a valued team member. Her work gives her a sense of purpose, routine, and social interaction.

Thomas, meanwhile, is an active member of his local community and actively volunteers. He enjoys playing football at a number of local clubs, where he has built strong friendships and developed new skills. His participation in sports has improved his physical health, confidence, and social connections. He too is now looking for part time employment.

Together, Mila and Thomas are learning about household responsibilities, they share daily tasks such as laundry and cleaning and are becoming more confident in the kitchen. They plan their leisure activities, embracing the normality of everyday life in their community.

The role of specialist housing in enabling independence

Golden Lane Housing’s expertise in providing specialist accommodation has been instrumental in making this transition successful. The research conducted in the Learning Disability and Autism Housing Network (LDAHN) report (June 2023) highlights the urgent need for high quality, long-term housing solutions for people with a learning disability. The report states:

“Without access to the right housing, many people with a learning disability and autistic people remain in inappropriate settings, such as institutional care or living with elderly parents. Specialist supported housing allows them to live safely, build meaningful relationships, and participate in their communities.”

Mila and Thomas’s story exemplifies this reality. Their home is not just a place to live—it is a foundation for independence, inclusion, and well-being. Their experience aligns with the report’s findings, which emphasise that housing should be:

• Person-centred: Designed to meet individual needs and aspirations
• Integrated: Located within the community, enabling social participation
• Stable and Secure: Providing long-term housing solutions that prevent unnecessary transitions

A normal life on a normal street

Mila and Thomas’s story is a testament to the positive impact of specialist housing when tailored to individual needs. They are living a normal life on a normal street—just like anyone else. Their journey demonstrates that, with the right housing and support, people with Down’s syndrome can lead fulfilling lives, contribute to their communities, and enjoy meaningful independence.

Golden Lane Housing continues to advocate for greater investment in specialist supported housing to ensure more people like Mila and Thomas have the opportunity to live the lives they choose. Their success story underscores the vital role of housing providers in delivering the Government’s ambitions for social care and independent living.