Supported Lodgings - How The Scheme Works
Supported Lodgings is a scheme, which enables young, single people, aged 16+ to be offered accommodation in a home environment. This accommodation is provided by people who feel that they are able to offer a room in their homes, along with some level of support, to vulnerable/homeless care leavers.
Most young people will finally leave home in their 20’s, having learnt the practical skills they need within their family and with the security of knowing that their family are around if they need advice, help or somewhere to go back to. For most young people in public care, this may not be the case, many leaving between the age of 16 and 18.
It is recognised that young people leaving local authority care are often vulnerable and have not had the opportunity to develop all the skills needed in order to live independently.
Every year the Pathways Team move care leavers from foster and residential care into a variety of supported type accommodation. Our experience of positive outcomes for young people clearly points towards the success of Supportive Lodgings type placements as a stepping stone towards independence.
Supportive Lodgings has been an integral part of the leaving care service since 2001 and we now have a growing number of registered landlords/ladies. Providers of supported lodgings undergo an approval process and will receive allowances and support from us if they are approved.
Providers of Supported Lodgings offer a room, which is for the sole use of the young person, in their home. The accommodation is normally provided for as long as the placement is open or required.
During which time it is hoped the young person will develop skills towards independent living. Support for the young person will come from the lodgings provider as well as project workers, social services and any other agencies with which the young person may be involved.
Supported Lodgings are therefore a distinctive alternative to traditional hostel provision.
Supported Lodgings Scheme operates under Poole Children and Young People's Social Care Pathways Team.
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