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As the SEA Forum looks ahead to its next meeting on Thursday 16th April, we’re taking a moment to share some of the key themes and discussions from our March gathering.
The session brought together existing members and new participants, all focused on addressing challenges and highlighting positives within Birmingham’s supported exempt accommodation sector.
It was a constructive discussion, reflecting both the complexity of the landscape and a continued focus on improving outcomes for residents.
A key area of concern centred on transition-themed accommodation – a type of housing designed to help individuals gradually move towards fuller independent living.
While this approach can prove useful, the Forum noted the risk that some models could begin to mirror supported exempt accommodation without providing the necessary levels of support. This raises important questions about how best to safeguard vulnerable residents and ensure standards are upheld.
Positive practices around ‘move-on accommodation’ was also highlighted, as an effective way to support residents towards greater independence.
A supported housing provider, KD Housing, demonstrated how individuals can be helped to take the next step forward. Further details on this initiative will be circulated to members and attendees in due course.
Looking ahead, attendees discussed plans for a future ‘Supported Accommodation Marketplace’ event. This initiative aims to promote Birmingham City Council’s Supported Exempt Accommodation Quality Assurance Standards (SEAQAS) while encouraging wider participation from providers and stakeholders across the sector.
The Forum noted that engagement with Birmingham City Council remains a priority, and the Chair confirmed ongoing meetings with key individuals within the Council’s housing department to raise awareness of the Forum’s work and to strengthen collaborative relationships.
Finally, the Forum considered the use of CCTV within supported accommodation settings. Attendees discussed the importance of ensuring that appropriate risk assessments and privacy documentation are in place, in line with legal and ethical requirements.
We look forward to building on these discussions at our upcoming April meeting.
If you are interested in improving the quality of housing and support within Birmingham’s SEA sector or would like to learn more about adopting the SEAQA Standards and becoming accredited within your own organisation, we encourage you to join our next meeting on Thursday 16th April. The location is yet to be confirmed but feel free to follow our LinkedIn channel, where it will be announced shortly.
To confirm your attendance or request further information, please email info@TheSEAForum.org.uk