Question 1

What is the difference between supported living and a care home?

Accepted Answer

Supported living — sometimes called assisted living or sheltered housing — is designed for people who want to maintain their independence while having support close at hand. In our supported living homes across South Devon, our team assists residents with personal care tasks such as washing and dressing, prompting and helping where needed, but always with independence at the heart of everything we do.

Our supported living homes are not locked, and residents are free to come and go as they please. Overnight, a final check is carried out at around 11pm and again at 5–6am. A call bell is always available should anyone need assistance in an emergency during the night.

South Devon Care Services also offers residential care for those whose needs require a greater level of hands-on support. If you're unsure which option might be right for you or your relative, we're very happy to talk it through — just message us or give us a call on 07704 573281.

Question 2

Can I bring my own furniture and personal belongings?

Accepted Answer

Familiar things make an enormous difference when you're settling into a new home, and we'd love your room to feel like yours from the very first day. Whether it's a favourite picture, a treasured plant, soft furnishings, or personal toiletries, there's a place for all of it.

Subject to room size, you're welcome to bring your own furniture too. We'll work with you to arrange everything just as you'd like it, because your comfort and sense of home truly matters to us.

Question 3

Can family and friends visit at any time?

Accepted Answer

Yes — there are no visiting restrictions at our supported living homes, and we mean that wholeheartedly. Family and friends are welcome to visit whenever suits them, whether that's a quick pop-in or a longer stay.

Visitors can spend time with their loved one in their room or in any of our communal areas. If you're planning to take your relative out for the day, we'd simply ask that you let the team know so we have an idea of when to expect them back. For a casual visit, there's no need to tell us anything at all.

Question 4

What is the minimum stay for respite care?

Accepted Answer

Our minimum supported living respite stay is one week, though we'd suggest two weeks where possible. A little more time allows your loved one — or you, if you're the one coming to stay — to properly settle in, enjoy our daily activities, and get the most out of the experience. We're happy to talk through what would work best for your situation, just get in contact anytime to discuss how we can support you.

Question 5

Is there a waiting list if there are no vacancies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and it's always worth getting in touch even if we don't have availability straight away. We'll add your details to our waiting list and contact you as soon as a suitable room becomes free. The earlier you reach out, the sooner we can get to know you and make sure we find the right match when the time comes.

Question 6

Do you accept couples?

Accepted Answer

Yes, couples are very welcome. It's worth knowing that our supported living rooms are designed for single occupancy and may not have space for a double bed, so we'd typically suggest booking two rooms — one to sleep in and one for storage, clothing, and personal belongings. Fees are charged per person. Give us a call on 07704 573281 and we'll help you find the arrangement that works best for you both.

Question 7

What is included in the weekly fee?

Accepted Answer

We believe in clear, straightforward pricing with no hidden costs. Your weekly fee covers everything you need to live comfortably:

Personalised personal care support
A thorough weekly clean of your room, including a fresh bed change
Medication management and support
Daily laundry service
All main meals, freshly prepared and served
All snacks and drinks throughout the day
Breakfast items provided
Full access to our twice-daily activities programme

Your fee is agreed following an initial assessment of your needs and will not change unless your care requirements increase over time.
The only additional charges are for optional visiting services — our hairdresser visits fortnightly and our chiropodist every six weeks — invoiced at the end of each month.

To discuss fees or request a personalised quote, please call us on 07704 573281.

Question 8

Can you cater for special dietary requirements?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Catering for individual dietary needs — whether allergies, intolerances, cultural requirements, or simply personal preferences — is something our kitchen team take real pride in. No requirement is too big or too small.
When you first arrive, one of our cooks will have a friendly chat to find out what you love to eat and what you'd rather avoid. From that point on, they'll make sure those things are always in stock. Good food, made with care and thought for the individual, is one of those things that really does make a place feel like home.

Question 9

What happens if my care needs increase over time?

Accepted Answer

Your wellbeing is always our priority. If your needs change, we'll reassess your care plan and talk through the next steps with you and your family, ensuring the right level of support is always in place.

Question 10

How do I arrange a visit to one of your supported living homes in Devon?

Accepted Answer

We'd love to show you around. Call us on 07704 573281 or email info@southdevoncareservices.com and we'll arrange a time that suits you — Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. There's no pressure and no obligation, just a warm welcome and as much time as you need to ask whatever's on your mind. We even invite you to join us for lunch and see daily life in our homes for yourself.

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