Children’s charity launches new service to help young people make the tricky transition towards independent living in south and east London.
Londoners who have a spare room and would like to help a vulnerable young person leaving care are urged to put themselves forward for a Barnardo’s programme launching this month.
The children’s charity will support dozens of young adults through its new London Supported Lodgings Service, which offers short-term accommodation for young people as they leave care.
Hosts are given weekly payments alongside ongoing support, training and guidance from the Barnardo’s team, so they are well equipped to help vulnerable young people as they make the difficult transition from childhood to independent adult life.
The service, based at The Triangle in Coxwell Road, Crystal Palace, supports young people in Southwark, Lambeth, Croydon and Redbridge. Barnardo’s is now looking to recruit hosts who live in each of those boroughs and can offer a safe, supportive and friendly home environment.
Barnardo’s Children’s Service Manager Rajinder Nagra said: “We urgently need to identify people who live in Southwark, Lambeth, Croydon or Redbridge, have a spare room at home and would like to make a real difference in the life of a young person.
“Our supported lodgings hosts receive weekly payments and ongoing training so they’re well equipped to give advice and emotional support to these highly vulnerable young people, who will eventually find safe housing of their own and begin living independently.
“This kind of short-term support can transform the lives of young people, enabling them to look forward to a brighter future. If you have a spare room and would like to help then we’d love to hear from you.”
Barnardo’s supports applicants through the assessment process to make it as quick and straightforward as possible. Initial and ongoing training and guidance are provided on a range of issues such as substance misuse, mental health and child sexual exploitation, where needed.
To find out more contact Niyah Drummonds, Barnardo’s supported lodgings coordinator, on 07730 025 516 or 0208 771 0907 or email londonsupportedlodgings@barnardos.org.uk
