What is Supported Lodgings?
Supported Lodgings is a scheme that provides safe and stable accommodation for vulnerable young people aged 16-21 who are unable to live with their families, are leaving care, or present as homeless.
This is achieved by enabling young people to access lodgings in approved private households across Rhondda Cynon Taf. Supported Lodgings hosts offer a spare room to a young person in need and provide support and guidance to help them transition to independence.
Who can become a Supported Lodgings host?
Supported Lodgings hosts can come from a variety of different backgrounds and different personal circumstances.
You can become a Supported Lodgings host regardless of marital status and situation, being single, married, living alone or have a family, employed or unemployed. Whether you own your own home, or are renting (providing you have permission you landlord), personal qualities like being caring and empathetic to the young person is more important, as well as having a passion and the patience to help
Experience working with young people or having raised your own children is preferred but not essential and you do not need any formal qualifications. We do ask that all applicants are over the age of 21, have a spare room available and are happy to share the rest of their home with a young person.
What is expected of Supported Lodgings hosts?
Supported Lodgings hosts are expected support young people and prepare them for independent living. This could include offering practical help with tasks such as cooking, cleaning, budgeting, making appointments and keeping healthy. Each young person is different and will have different support needs, which will be discussed before they move in to make sure it is a suitable match for your household and circumstances.
How much do Supported Lodgings hosts receive?
Supported Lodgings hosts currently receive a rate of £170.00 per week, which is paid on a fortnightly basis. This includes a charge for room rent, services, food and support costs, and a £10 contribution from the young person. A retainer of £20 per week is paid to providers once approved if they have a vacancy and waiting for a placement.
How do I become a Supported Lodgings provider?
After expressing your interest, a Supported Lodgings Social Worker will be in contact to arrange an informal chat and answer any questions you might have. If you are happy to proceed, the Social Worker will undertake an assessment to find out more about you, your household, and circumstances. This is to ensure the safety of any young person coming into your home and to identify any support needed.
For further information please contact The Supported Lodgings Team:
By phone, text or WhatsApp on: 07824541613 / 07747485829
By email on: SupportedLodgings@rctcbc.gov.uk
By post at: 16+ West, Ty Trevithick, Abercynon, CF45 4UQ
Or visit us online at: www.rctcbc.gov.uk/supportedlodgings