A success story shaped by partnership, personalisation, and the Right Support, Right Care, Right Culture approach
Enabled by Sunderland Care and Support (SCAS), Adult Social Care, and partners.
Ann Marie McManus has described her new home as "beautiful," "mine," and "I love it here." Ann's story highlights how Sunderland's newest supported living development, St Cuthbert Close, is already transforming lives, thanks to strong collaboration between Sunderland Care and Support (SCAS), Adult Social Care, families, advocates, health professionals, and the commissioning team.
Ann's brother, Thomas McManus, reflected on the move, saying:
"I feel the move was a very smooth, caring, and professional one. There were no issues with Ann's care and treatment before, during and after her move. Her new home is amazing. I feel she is going to benefit from this lovely surrounding and community. I would also like to thank all the staff past and present for everything you all do for my sister Ann-Marie, you all do an amazing job."
From the start, the project set out to deliver modern, person-centred accommodation that prioritises safety, independence, and dignity. Ann's experience demonstrates just how successfully that vision has been achieved through this shared effort. For the first time, Ann can personalise her own space, walk independently to local shops, and access the community with confidence. The quieter environment and close proximity to amenities mean everyday activities are calmer and more achievable. SCAS support staff have played a key role in enabling this transition, providing reassurance, continuity, and person-centred support every step of the way.
These bungalows were intentionally designed with specialist input from Adult Social Care, SCAS's experienced operational and frontline teams, and the commissioning team. Their shared expertise ensured the homes meet specific needs, reduce restrictions, and allow people to live more freely.
With integrated 5G infrastructure, the homes are ready for bespoke assistive technology tailored to individual requirements. SCAS staff will use this technology to enhance independence and safety, working closely with digital inclusion specialists to ensure a seamless blend of care and innovation.
The move from larger shared houses to smaller, bespoke homes not only aligns with CQC expectations for supported living but also reflects the values that SCAS and Adult Social Care promote, dignity, choice, and personalised care.
Ann's joy in her new home reflects the compassionate, person-centred approach shared across the whole partnership. Describing the bungalow as "beautiful" and "mine," she has expressed a genuine sense of belonging. She is currently enjoying choosing colours and designs for her new fitted wardrobe, a level of personalisation actively supported by SCAS staff, families, and advocates who ensure her voice is always heard.
The calmer, quieter environment has helped Ann feel safer, more settled, and more comfortable. SCAS teams have been central in supporting her emotional wellbeing, daily routines, and independence as she adjusts to her new surroundings. This development represents a strong and positive culture shared across the full support system, from council leaders and commissioners to SCAS frontline staff, external professionals, families, and advocates. It is rooted in the belief that people should be able to live ordinary, fulfilling lives within their communities.
Easy access to local shops and amenities has strengthened Ann's community connections. SCAS staff continue to support her in building confidence and independence in everyday tasks, ensuring she makes the most of the opportunities around her.
Adult Social Care teams, SCAS managers and support workers, advocates, families, and commissioning colleagues worked collectively to ensure the bungalow met individual needs. Their shared commitment has resulted in a home, not just accommodation, where people feel valued, respected, and genuinely supported.
The modern, comfortable design showcases a culture in which people with support needs are provided with high quality environments that promote pride, wellbeing, and positive identity. Ann's story is more than positive feedback, it is a real-life example of how thoughtful design, proactive support, and the Right Support, Right Care, Right Culture principles can transform lives.
By bringing together Adult Social Care, Sunderland Care and Support (SCAS), advocates, families, health professionals, and the commissioning team, Sunderland has created an environment where people are supported to:
- Live with dignity
- Make their own choices
- Feel safe and valued
- Access and participate in their community
- Build independence
- Experience a home that genuinely belongs to them
This development stands as a powerful example of what is possible when SCAS and partners work together with one shared goal: supporting people to live their best lives.
