HOMEOWNERS with a spare bedroom are being urged to give a young person a place to build skills to become independent.
Staffordshire County Council has launched an appeal for families to become supported lodgings hosts.
The scheme allows people to help those aged 16 to 19 build their independence and learn life skills, such as cooking, cleaning and managing money.
Among those who have already become supported lodgings hosts in Staffordshire are Martin and Bev Young.
Martin said:
“We’ve been hosting now for three years and have cared for two young people so far.
“It’s a privilege being a host and to support young people into adulthood. Many arrive without family to support them and it’s incredibly rewarding to offer them a safe, welcoming home.
“We’re supported by a supported lodgings co-ordinator and have access to all foster carer training.
“Hosting isn’t a long-term commitment, young people stay only until they’re ready for independent living. We keep in touch with the first young person we hosted and feel proud seeing them thrive.
“To anyone thinking about hosting we’d say go for it, you won’t regret it.”
Anyone interested in becoming a supported lodgings host with Staffordshire County Council can find out more online or by calling 0800 169 2061.
Cllr Nicholas Lakin, cabinet member for children and young people at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“All sorts of people from all walks of life can become a host and our latest campaign is hoping to encourage more local families to consider joining us.
“People who want to host simply need to have a spare bedroom, good communication skills and want to support local young people.
“If this sounds like you and you’re looking to make a difference in 2025 then please get in touch with the team and start the process.”
