Essex County Council has recently launched a campaign to raise awareness of the need for more people across Essex to provide Supported Lodgings to young people aged 16-18 years old.
You can help to shape the future of a young person by sharing your home and offering them a safe, secure and nurturing environment. Supported Lodgings Providers help young people aged 16-18 who have suffered trauma in their past and guide them on their journey to independence.
After working in social care for many years and meeting vulnerable young people, Susie decided to become a Supported Lodgings Carer and help make a difference. Susie says: “I just know it will make a difference. We’re giving our young person emotional stability as well as encouraging small steps of independence for her to go onto university and succeed.
“Supported lodgings is a good alternative to fostering, as I work full time, but it is just as rewarding.”
You can read Susie’s full story on Essex County Council’s website or watch her video.
You don’t need any specific qualifications to provide Supported Lodgings. You can be working, unemployed or retired, single, married or living with a partner. Essex County Council will carefully match young people to your family, offer local training and 24/7 support, and you can receive £250 per week, per young person.
You can find out more by visiting their website. Alternatively, you can give their friendly team a call on 0800 801 530.