The difference between residential care and supported living?

[Flyingpigs247]

A severely disabled close relative of mine has recently gone into "supported living".
He needs full round the clock care.
I was told it's different to residential (nursing) care.
Does this mean they are expected to do more for themselves?
He is in a house with 3 other residents and they have waking night staff.
I have a few worries after visiting but I think it's just come as a shock as I didn't know what to expect.

With supported living the residents are supported by staff in carrying out day to day activities such as cleaning, shopping, laundry etc Staff will also support the residents self care skills as required, ie helping with personal care.
It is about helping an individual to take as much responsibility for their day to day life as possible and encouraging and developing life skills.

Support comes in various levels though. If your cousin cannot do very much for themselves the support workers are not going to stand waiting for them to get on with it. They'll do the bulk and give choice and control over perhaps. Might be minimal but it'll be something. Like where do you want to shop, when do you want to do it, etc. As they get to know your cousin more they will find the right level between promoting independence and supporting that at the same time. There's really nothing to worry about. Supported living staff and homes are lovely almost without exception I've found.