Portsmouth City Council’s fostering service, Foster Portsmouth, is observing the inaugural National Supported Lodgings Week with a drop-in event and awareness campaign to recruit carers.
The service offers accommodation and at least 10 hours weekly support to young people aged up to 24 as they transition towards independent living.
Young people in Portsmouth requiring emotional support, encouragement, and safe housing may be leaving foster care, unable to remain with family, or seeking safety and asylum. The scheme provides a crucial stepping stone towards adulthood.
Whilst similar to fostering, Supported Lodgings accommodates more independent young people who can typically manage their own journeys to college, training, or employment. This arrangement allows carers to maintain work commitments whilst offering flexibility and the opportunity to significantly impact a young person’s life.
Councillor Nick Dorrington, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council, stated the council seeks individuals, couples, or families who comprehend the challenges facing today’s young people.
He added that those able to support young people in building confidence and acquiring essential life skills including cooking, washing, or budgeting, whilst helping them pursue education, training, or employment and ultimately secure their own accommodation, could make a genuine difference.
A drop-in event will take place on Thursday 13 November from 12pm to 2pm and 6pm to 7pm at The Greenhouse Community Hub in Victoria Park. Attendees can learn about the service and have queries addressed by experienced staff, with existing carers available during the evening session.
Supported Lodgings carer Helen described it as an excellent option for those wanting to make a difference but unable to commit to full-time fostering, noting the significant number of young people requiring support makes it incredibly fulfilling.
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Fellow carer Tamara added that Supported Lodgings helps set young people up for success.
The council seeks people willing to serve as inspiration and mentors, helping young people achieve a successful start to independent life.
