FAQs + Rossendale Trust

We are sure you will have lots of questions. Here we have tried to answer ones that we frequently get asked about.

Supported Living FAQs

Is there an age limit of people that can apply for supported living?

Tenants can come to live with us from the age of 18+. There is no upper age limit. However, the approval and allocation process can take up to 6 months so a prospective tenant can register their interest online before they reach the age of 18.

Can I visit properties to look at the accommodation?

Yes, as part of the process of someone moving into a property, they will visit properties which suit their needs to see if they like it and get along with the people who already live there. It is the tenant’s home so we can’t show people inside their home without already having established it could be the right accommodation for them.

What support do you offer?

We tailor our support to each individuals needs and desired outcomes, always encouraging tenants to do as much for themselves as is possible in a warm, inclusive and respectful environment where they can grow their independence.

What night-time support do you offer?

Dependent on the property and needs of the tenants, we have waking night staff and sleep-in staff.

Do I need a social worker?

Yes. If you do not already have a social worker you would need to contact them and explain you’re looking to move to supported living. They will assess your needs and once accommodation is found, agree funding to pay for your care either directly to the Trust or via direct payments. You will need to pay the council a contribution of your care fees from your benefits.

Will I sign a tenancy and how do I pay my rent?

Yes, you will be supported to sign a Tenancy, then pay your rent using either Housing Benefit or pay the landlord direct.

Can I bring my pet?

Unfortunately, we can’t have pets in any of the properties.

When I move in can my family and friends visit?

Yes, of course, it is your home, they can visit whenever you wish. We normally ask that they arrange visits or call before they come just to ensure you’ll be home.

Can I go to stay with my family and friends?

Yes, of course you can visit whenever you like. Some tenants stay over with their family regularly after moving in whilst others see theirs for the day or for lunch etc

Is there transport available for appointments, shopping and social activities?

Yes, we have a fleet of cars which are available for the tenants of the Trust to access with staff support. These are included in the client account payment/agreement and the Trust pay for services, tax, insurance and petrol. Tenants are also supported to walk or use public transport wherever possible or appropriate.

Can I stay over before I move in?

No, unfortunately you can’t stay over before a tenancy is signed. We do encourage visits before you move in to ensure you are happy and comfortable coming to live in your new home.

How do I pay bills and manage my money?

Our finance department pay utility bills for you. Each tenant has a client account where they transfer money into every month by standing order for bills. Every tenant has a client account agreement we use to agree the amount of money needed for each month to cover all the bills. Other things may be covered in this agreement such as housekeeping (for food, cleaning products etc), personal monies (for going out for drinks, personal shopping, magazines etc) chiropody and clinical waste services etc.

Do I need to live in Macclesfield or Buxton to move to the Trust?

Not at all. We are open to discussing your needs and wishes wherever you live in the UK. Your own local authority, in the area where you currently live, will also be involved in assessing your needs.

Oakwood FAQs

How can I try it out before signing up?

We provide up to three free taster sessions for individuals to try some activities to see if it works for all parties, from there we can move to a more formal process.

Do you have changing facilities with a hoist?

Unfortunately, we don’t currently have a changing facility with a hoist. This is something that we are keen to offer however and are in the process of fundraising for such a facility.

What is the referral process?

Referrals can come through any means; direct through families, through health workers, social workers, care workers etc. However, as there is a charge for the service, checking your funding situation with a social worker is recommended before the process starts.

Who can access Oakwood service?

The service is primarily for adults (18+) with learning disabilities. However, we have an assessment process which means we have no formal restrictions as long as we can cater for your particular needs and abilities.

Are activities free on the day?

Most activities are free but some such as cooking or the social group will require a small amount of money to cover the cost of a drink or food for example.

Who provides transport to activities?

Anyone attending Oakwood from the wider community will need to arrange transport to and from their activities. However, for day trips, visits, activities and in between morning and afternoon sessions for those staying all day, we will organise all the necessary transport.

How big are the groups?

We mostly work in small groups all led by experienced Activity Leaders. Anyone requiring additional support with mobility, behaviour, personal care or administering of medication will need to bring support with them.

Do you provide refreshments and lunch?

We will provide tea, coffee, milk, water and juice at regular intervals; however, we do not provide any meals so individuals must come with a packed lunch if they are staying for the day.

Is Oakwood open term time only?

Oakwood is open Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm all year round. The only dates it is closed are bank holidays and the week over Christmas and New Year.

WorkTaste FAQs

How much commitment is expected?

Our placements are usually between 4-6 weeks with the individual and their WorkTaste Coach with you for just 2 hours each week. However, these can be extended if both parties wish to do that.

Do I have to pay anything?

No, it is completely free!

Can we pay individuals doing WorkTaste?

WorkTaste coaches are funded from a variety of sources so we don’t ask for any payment to be made to individuals. However, some workplaces do feel it appropriate to share tips earned during a shift if the placement is in a restaurant or café for example.

How does the coaching work?

Our coaches will be present 100% of the time to support the individual and will teach defined tasks in a systematic manner as directed by the staff at the placement.

What sort of businesses would be suitable?

There are many different sectors which would be suitable for supported employment including hospitality, retail, offices, production facilities and outdoor venues such as garden centres.

Can we offer placements for longer than 6 weeks?

Yes, as long as both parties are happy with the arrangement the placements can be ongoing and hours extended to suit.

Support Worker FAQs

Do I need experience to apply for a job?

That really depends on which role you are applying for. To be a Support Worker or WorkTaste Coach you don’t need any experience but you do need to be caring and patient and be willing to undertake the relevant training that we provide.

How old do I have to be to apply to work or volunteer at the Trust?

You must be 18 years old or above.

What does the recruitment process involve?

After you complete an application form and we think the role is suitable for you, you will be invited for an interview. If you are successful, we will need two satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check which we will pay for. Once all checks are completed, your start date will then be arranged.

When would I get paid?

Wages are paid by BACS every fortnight on a Thursday.

What are the main benefits?

Up to 21 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time hours)
Life assurance/death in service benefit – 4 x basic salary* (after qualifying period)
Automatic enrolment to the People’s Pension for eligible employees*
Westfield Health – cash health plan for employees and their children under 18 years*
Enhanced sick pay scheme – enhanced sick payments after 12 months’ service in addition to statutory sick pay
Flexible working options
Fully funded study to gain qualifications in Health & Social Care (Eg Diplomas Level 2, 3 and 5)
Full induction and ongoing training and development opportunities
Long service awards
Free parking

*Not available for Bank Workers