1 Overview
Supported Lodgings is an accommodation scheme for young people who need a secure and supportive environment in which to stay. As a Supported Lodgings carer, you will be giving them a helping hand towards independence.
The scheme is open to young people aged 16-21 (or 24 if they are in higher education). You may be supporting a young care leaver or someone who is unable to live at home. Sometimes this can also be a young person from overseas who is claiming asylum.
Your role
You will play an important role in helping young people develop their skills in cooking, washing, completing job applications and preparing for adult life. They will also need emotional support and encouragement to help them meet their potential.
Like fostering, the young person will stay with you and your family while they are in the Supported Lodgings scheme. Unlike fostering however, they will usually be able to get themselves around independently to college and employment – therefore good transport links are essential.
2 Who can be a Supported Lodgings carer?
You could be considered as a Supported Lodgings carer if you have:
- a spare room
- life experience
- an understanding of the issues young people can face
- the desire to make a difference.
It also helps if you live in an area of West Sussex that has good transport links.
Our carers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, ethnic groups, faiths and age groups. They include people who have recently retired and people who work full time, single carers and carers with families of their own.
As an approved Supported Lodgings carer you will work in partnership with the County Council’s Children’s Services and will be paid a weekly allowance.
Currently, the minimum payment is £243.54 per week.
You will also receive support from an allocated Child and Family support worker, who will visit regularly and have access to training.
3 How to apply
If you think this role could be for you, the next step is to complete our enquiry form. We will then contact you to arrange a visit and start an assessment.
This involves a number of checks, such as Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, and gives us time to get to know you and your family.
It also gives you time to think about the commitment you are making to supporting a young person in your home.
If you would like to come along to one of our information sessions to find out more, visit our Fostering information evenings page.
If you feel ready to apply complete our enquiry form or phone us on 033 022 27775.