Inclusivity: Taking the time to create a list of potential financial supports for housing can be a helpful and important first step to understand what options might be available and to keep track of the process.

Insight: We heard that accessing funding can be complex. There are a lot of different types of funding such as rent subsidies, moving grants, or utility supports. There can also be complex eligibility requirements in each province or territory.

Tip: Take this idea further by including details on the list about when and how to apply for funding.

Insight: We heard that learning to create a workable housing budget and managing bills is very important when moving out for the first time. It often involves new routines, skills and systems that need to be built up gradually.

Tip: Use real-life housing examples to explore money concepts like rent, interest, credit, and savings.

Tip: Explore apps or online tools that track things like rent payments, savings, or bills. Finding the right one to use sometimes takes a few tries, so explore the options available. But be mindful about sharing personal and financial information.

Inclusivity: Setting up automated banking can make it easier to manage money day to day. But it may involve using new technology or coordinating with banks and service providers, which can take some extra effort up front. It can be helpful to work with a trusted support person to get everything set up. Just be mindful not to assume who is or isn’t comfortable using tech tools.

Insight: We learned that managing bills can be repetitive and it can be hard to keep track of different deadlines. Automated deposits, recurring transfers, and bill payments can reduce the cognitive load and avoid missed bills or late fees.

Example: We chatted with several Neurodivergent people about how funding can make their home a better fit. But an important point came up about first needing to know how to access and use funding.

One Autistic person shared that their support worker helped them navigate and manage their funding. Their caseworker reviewed their funding and noticed that it wasn’t used. They asked the person about using it and they said, “I have no idea how. So, they showed me, but it’s been great having help with this. They have really, really, been amazing.”

Application: Check out our Money Flow Diagram, a visual tool to help Neurodivergent people map how money moves in and out of an account and spot opportunities to simplify or automate financial tasks.

Insight: We learned that lots of people help with daily life in small ways, even if someone will be living alone. Having a list of them can be a useful reference. For example, the list can include friends, family, and service provides like caseworkers, day program staff, therapists, medical professionals, or personal care services.

Tip: View our Housing Ecosystem Map to learn about different roles in the housing ecosystem and how they can support neuroinclusive housing.

Application: Check out our fillable template, Keeping Track of Your Supports During a Move, to stay organized and connected with supportive people and services.

Insight: We learned that checking out the area around a home and seeing how well the available services match a person’s needs can help them decide if it’s a good place to live.

Tip: Create a list of key support contacts like therapists, coordinators, or caseworkers that will be used in the new neighbourhood. This list can also be used to communicate needs across care teams or with new service providers.

Inclusivity: During transitions, it’s easy for support systems to become disrupted. Keeping an up-to-date list can help maintain continuity and support shared planning.

Inclusivity: The type of housing that works best is different for everyone. For example, some people prefer co-living with family or roommates, while others prefer living alone.

Tip: Use visual guides, tours, or checklists to help compare different housing options. Include details about the sensory environment, accessibility, nearby supports, and cost to help determine the best fit.

Application: Check out our Comparison of Housing Styles example to think about important features.

Insight: We heard that co-living could mean sharing a home with roommates, family, friends, or in a group setting. When living with adult siblings or relatives, it must be centred on mutual respect, clear boundaries, and shared responsibility.

Tip: Organize casual meetups for potential roommates to get to know each other before moving in. This provides an opportunity for people figure out what’s a good fit.

Example: When we talked to Neurodivergent students about their housing journeys, some said that post-secondary institution advisors connected them to different co-living housing options. These advisors also considered the location, potential for roommates, accessibility needs, and nearby services.

Inclusivity: Finding housing can take time and come with challenges. Sometimes it can be easier with help from professionals or family and friends.

Tip: Consider connecting with a housing support worker, service coordinator, or housing navigator. They are professionals who help match people with housing options that fit their needs.

Insight: We learned that these people are often found in community agencies, housing services, developmental services, mental health organizations, or housing-focused non-profits.

Tip: Consider getting help from a trusted friend or family member to communicate with landlords, book viewings, and ask questions.