Released: 10 February 2023
A new scheme providing young people leaving care with a safe home and support to live independently has been launched by West Sussex County Council.
The first West Sussex House Project will bring together groups of young people up to the age of 25 who are moving out of care and into adulthood.
A dedicated hub has been created in Crawley where professionals will teach them a range of life skills, from cooking to money management, to creative projects such as how to make furniture and renovate a house.
The National House Project is a charity working with local authorities across the UK, including West Sussex County Council together with the county’s district and borough councils.
The first 12 young care leavers from West Sussex to start the project are being helped to find new homes, which are safe and meet their long-term, individual needs. At the same time, they will gain a qualification and be part of a network of support, which is available to them now and into the future.
Jacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said: “It was amazing to formally launch the first West Sussex House Project which provides this fantastic space for our care leavers.
“We made the decision two years ago to join this innovative programme and guide young people whom we and others have cared for through the tricky transition from being in care to adulthood.
“It’s great to start to see our first group of young people begin their life skills courses, be supported into their own accommodation, and getting ready to live more independent lives and fulfil their potential. I am excited to see the difference this project will make.”
Miah, aged 16, House Project Cool Kids Club member and Care Leaver National Movement representative said: “I am looking forward to my journey of the House Project and having the chance to be more independent.”
West Sussex County Council’s Leaving Care Service supports every young person who has been under our care as they move into adulthood, helping them to prepare to live independent lives that are healthy, happy and safe.
The service works with children from the age of 17 up to 25, and each is allocated a personal advisor who helps with their health and wellbeing and with practical things like finances, housing, relationships, education and employment.
Find out about the support we offer to West Sussex Care Leavers on our website.
Find out more about the National House Project.
