Supported housing is one of the most vital parts of the social safety net, but also one of the least-well understood. It combines appropriate support services with decent, stable homes for people who need some support to lead independent lives – and so saves a fortune on more expensive acute services. The majority of supported housing consists of homes for older people. Another, smaller segment is classified as Specialised Supported Housing: long-term homes for those with serious disabilities that mean they will likely stay in their housing for many years and may involve specially adapted properties.