On 13 March 2026, we were pleased to welcome senior representatives from the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) to Sunderland
Sunderland Care and Support welcomed senior representatives from the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) to Sunderland for a focused visit showcasing innovative supported living and assistive technology provision.
ADASS represents Directors of Adult Social Services nationally and plays a key role in influencing policy, sharing best practice, and championing high‑quality adult social care.
Visit to Washington Old School - Supported Living in Practice
The ADASS representatives were welcomed to Washington Old School, where they were supported throughout the visit by SCAS representatives and Managers of Washington Old School.
A highlight of the visit was being guided around the service by customers themselves. They proudly showed guests their homes and shared their personal experiences of living at Washington Old School.
Customers spoke confidently about their state‑of‑the‑art apartments, demonstrating how their homes support independence, privacy and choice. Particular pride was shown in the communal and private garden spaces, which customers described as places of relaxation, socialising and wellbeing.
Visitors were also given insight into customers' day‑to‑day activities, with individuals sharing how they are actively involved in planning their routines, pursuing personal interests, and engaging in community life. The openness and enthusiasm of customers clearly reflected a strong sense of ownership, belonging and achievement within their homes.
The visit provided an authentic and powerful illustration of person‑centred supported living in action, with customers confidently leading the narrative and showcasing what "home" truly means to them.
Visit to the Smart House, Leechmere
Following the visit to Washington Old School, the ADASS representatives went on to visit the Smart House at Leechmere, accompanied by SCAS Managers and colleagues from the Community Therapy Service.
The Smart House demonstrated how assistive technology, digital solutions and intelligent design are being used to enhance independence, safety and quality of life for people living with disabilities and long-term health conditions. The team showcased a range of assistive technology, illustrating how these tools can be tailored to individual needs while promoting choice, dignity and control.
The visit sparked positive discussion about the role of innovation in adult social care and how technology can achieve better outcomes for people.
Reflections
The visit offered ADASS an opportunity to see first‑hand how Sunderland Care and Support continues to:
- Embed person‑centred practice
- Promote independence and pride in home
- Invest in innovation and smart technology
- Champion the voices and experiences of people who use our services
Most importantly, the visit highlighted the confidence, pride and ownership demonstrated by customers themselves, who were central to telling the story of their homes and their lives.
