Become a host to help young people on way to independence

Monday, 7 December 2020 15:54

Families and individuals in Wolverhampton are being encouraged to become ‘hosts’ for a service which aims to give a safe and loving temporary home for young people leaving care.

The City of Wolverhampton Council’s Supported Lodgings Service provides accommodation for vulnerable children and young people aged 16 to 21 who are leaving care but are not quite ready to live independently.

Councillor John Reynolds, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “We are really pleased to be introducing the Supported Lodgings Service which provides yet another accommodation option for young people in Wolverhampton who are preparing to leave care and make the transition into adulthood.

“We think that supported lodgings will suit those young people who do not feel ready to live on their own and need or want more personal support.

“We are now looking to recruit hosts; people who are willing to support some of our most vulnerable young people.

“We are looking for people who enjoy having young people around, understand the difficulties faced by children and young people in care and care leavers and have a real desire to make a difference to their lives by giving them the skills and confidence they need to live independently.

“Hosts can be married, single or in a relationship, in work or not; we just ask that they have the time to support the young person to develop their independent living skills and provide a safe, homely environment with continued support.

“If you think you can help a young person on their journey to adulthood by becoming a Supported Lodgings Host, please get in touch with us to find out more.”

Supported Lodgings Hosts will receive the support of a placement worker to expertly match a young person to them, ongoing training and support for the duration of the placement and weekly payments to cover the costs of hosting the young person.

For more information please visit www.fosteringforwolverhampton.com/supported-lodgings, email supportedlodgings@wolverhampton.gov.uk or call Zoe Miles on 07392 137570.