For many people recovering from severe mental health challenges, the journey to independent living is not straightforward. A sudden shift from high-support environments to complete independence can be overwhelming. Without the right support at this crucial time, people are at risk of relapse and readmission to hospital, as well as social isolation. Medium Support Services provide a bridge between these crucial stages.

The Challenge of Transitioning to Independence

Leaving a high-dependancy setting can be a scary time. Many people recovering from mental illness have spent months or even years in secure hospitals, 24-hour mental health services, or other high-dependency environments by this point. In these types of settings, daily routines are structured, staff are available at all times, and practical needs are met. The sudden change from this kind of environment to independent living can trigger anxiety, increase stress, and lead to setbacks in recovery.

At Bridge Support, our Medium Support Services recognises this challenge. So, rather than pushing people into independence before they are fully ready, we provide a staged approach that helps our clients build confidence and essential life skills at a manageable pace.

A Structured yet Flexible Approach

Our Medium Support Service balances independence with structured support. Our clients live in supported accommodation where they have access to any assistance they need, while still having the space to develop personal responsibility. Support workers are on-site from 9 am to 9 pm, with additional on-call support available overnight. We want our clients to learn how to manage their own daily lives with confidence, while making sure that they are never completely without help.

Each client works closely with a dedicated support worker to develop a personalised recovery plan. This plan focuses on key areas such as:

• Managing their own medication and mental health treatment.
• Developing essential daily living skills, such as cooking, cleaning, and budgeting.
• Learning how to maintain a tenancy and deal with landlords.
• Building confidence in social interactions and forming healthy relationships.
• Exploring opportunities for education, training, or employment.
• Engaging with local community activities to combat isolation.

You won’t find a one-size-fits-all approach from us. Each plan is tailored to the individual’s unique needs to ensure a balance between support and independence.

Preventing Relapse and Readmission

One of the key points of our Medium Support Service is its staged integration model. The transition from high-support to independent living doesn’t happen overnight. Instead, our clients will have a trial period to determine if this program is something they’re ready for. This process allows both the client and the staff to assess and make necessary adjustments before committing to a full transition.

During their time, clients engage in real-life skill development. They take responsibility for their own daily tasks, learn how to manage unexpected challenges, and gradually reduce their reliance on support workers. This phased approach prevents the shock of sudden independence and minimises the risk of setbacks.

The results speak for themselves. Over 30% of our clients progress to lower levels of support each year, and 50% achieve fully independent living within two years. By the time they leave the program, they will have the skills and confidence needed to sustain their independence in the long term.

The Financial and Social Impact

Providing medium-level support is clearly beneficial for the people who need it, but it is also cost-effective for the wider mental health system. The cost of accommodating a person in 24-hour support is significantly higher than in medium support. On average, the annual cost per client in medium support is approximately £10,000—five times less than that of high-support services.

This cost-effectiveness extends beyond direct service expenses. People who successfully make the switch to independent living are less likely to need crisis care, emergency interventions, or hospital admissions. This lessens the burden on A&E, social workers, and NHS mental health services.

There are huge social benefits to middle support that go beyond saving money. People are able to regain control of their lives. They can re-establish healthy routines, rebuild their sense of self, and reconnect with their communities. Many go on to get jobs, continue their education, or make significant contributions to society. In addition to enhancing their quality of life, this also lessens stigma and promotes inclusivity.

The Role of Collaboration in Recovery

It’s important to remember that effective medium support services can’t operate in isolation. Bridge Support collaborates closely with clinicians, care coordinators, local authorities, and other mental health professionals to ensure a seamless support system for our clients. We have regular meetings, progress reviews, and coordinated care plans to help keep clients on track and make sure that any emerging issues are addressed before they escalate.

Family involvement is also really important and encouraged (where appropriate). For many people, having a supportive family network can make a real difference in their recovery. Part of our job is to help families understand the recovery process, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to provide right encouragement and support

The journey from high-support care to independent living is complex, but with the right support, it is entirely achievable. Our Medium Support Service currently operates across South East London, North East Essex, and West Essex, with plans to expand into other areas. For more information, contact us here.

Further Reading

Supporting Families of Those with Mental Health Challenges

Person-Centred Care at Bridge Support

5 Tips for Families Supporting Loved Ones with Mental Health Needs