Supported Independent Living (SIL)

The Supported Independent Living (SIL) Program provides community-based supports and services to adults at risk or potential risk of involvement in the justice system.

We offer personalized programs with daily support to help clients build life skills and connect with the community, aiming for positive self-development based on their own goals.

We believe that the personal growth in this program builds long-lasting self-worth and individual development. This helps keep our participants out of the justice system and makes them confident members of our London community.

Our participants can come from as far away as Brantford to as close as St. Thomas, but most live in our beautiful city of London, Ontario! They receive a range of supports to meet their needs in all areas of adult life, including:

 

  • household management
  • hygiene and daily routines
  • grocery shopping and meal preparation
  • scheduling and attending appointments
  • budgeting
  • employment and educational goals
  • planning and participating in recreational or leisure activities

These supports promote a safe and healthy lifestyle.

In addition to supporting independence, we focus on advocacy, crisis prevention and resolution, family relationships, counseling, and therapeutic partnerships. We connect our clients to various community services to ensure they have the support and resources that meet their unique needs.

What does a typical day of support look like in the SIL Program?

A typical day of support can range from purchasing groceries, accessing community resources, completing laundry or cooking, or attending appointments and activities.  Participants work with a SIL team member daily to create a structure for their support time that meets their needs at that time.  As goals are established or accomplished, the participant and staff will often make a plan for the next planned support.

How does a SIL Team staff member spend their day while not with participants?

While support is often provided in person, it can also be through finding resources, advocacy, researching potential recreational activities, and linking with community services and partnerships that will positively benefit our participants.

How often should I expect to be in contact with staff as a participant of SIL?

The team understands that our participants often have busy personal lives so we work with each individually to plan out support that will meet their unique needs and suit their preferred communication style.  Support schedules are established to ensure our participants are receiving the support they desire, in a manner that works best for them.

How can someone be referred as a participant for SIL?

All referrals are processed through Developmental Services Ontario (DSO).  An Application for Development Support Services (ADSS), as well as a Support Intensity Scale (SIS) assessment are required, prior to being placed on the wait list for services.  Please contact your local DSO for details.

Supported Independent Living