Supported Living vs Residential Care — MRCPsych Paper B MCQ
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Correct answer: B — Supported living separates the person's tenancy or home from the care package; residential care provides accommodation with care and no tenancy.
Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · D = shown as C · C = shown as D · A = shown as E
B is correct. In supported living, the person occupies their own home or holds a tenancy, while care and support are arranged as a separate package. In residential care, accommodation and personal care form the placement, and the resident does not hold a tenancy. This separation supports choice and independence, although the amount of support may still be substantial. A and C reverse the organisational distinction. D is incorrect because supported living can include staff on site or support available for up to 24 hours; it is not defined by visiting staff or staffing intensity. E is incorrect because supported living may be individual or shared, while residential care does not necessarily require shared bedrooms.
Reference: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Rehabilitation for adults with complex psychosis (NG181), definitions of residential care and supported housing, 2020. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/NG181/chapter/recommendations