Step by Step is proud to mark the first ever National Supported Lodgings Week (9th–16th November), shining a light on the power of community and the difference a caring adult can make. Join us in celebrating our hosts and helping more young people move towards independence.
Enquire About Becoming a HostSupported Lodgings is more than just a place to stay. It offers young people aged 16 to 21 at risk of homelessness a stable home environment and the support of a trusted adult. Hosts provide a spare room and a steady presence, helping young people build confidence, gain life skills and move towards independent living.
At Step by Step, Supported Lodgings is one of the most powerful ways we prevent homelessness. In the past year alone, we supported 251 young people across Hampshire, Surrey, Berkshire, Dorset, Wiltshire and West Sussex. Of those, 83% showed positive progression, and 70% were in education, training or employment during their placement.
We see young people as the heroes of their own stories – overcoming trauma, navigating change, and taking brave steps towards a brighter future. But behind every hero is someone who cared enough to open their home, listen, and believe in them.
That’s where our Supported Lodgings hosts come in. With full training, ongoing support and a weekly allowance, hosts provide the steady presence young people need to thrive. You don’t need qualifications – just a spare room and the desire to make a difference.
National Supported Lodgings Week is part of a national initiative launched by Host the Future, highlighting the importance of community hosting for young people at risk of homelessness.
From 9th to 16th November, Step by Step will be out in local communities, raising awareness of Supported Lodgings and celebrating the extraordinary difference hosts make.
Visit us at one of our awareness stalls:
The Oracle, Reading (Monday 10th November)
Festival Place, Basingstoke (Wednesday 12th November)
The Marlands, Southampton (Friday 14th November)
Come along for a friendly chat. There’s no pressure – just a chance to ask questions, meet the team and find out more about hosting.
Becoming a host is a chance to be part of a young person’s journey toward independence. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be present.
Hosts receive a weekly allowance
You’ll get comprehensive training and 24/7 support
Our team works with you to find a suitable match
“Every young person I've had has been lovely, They might struggle sometimes, but that’s often because of what they’ve been through. They just need someone to care."
If you believe in giving young people a chance, you can help us spread the word. During National Supported Lodgings Week, you can:
Share our posts on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn using #BeTheHero and #NationalSupportedLodgingsWeek
Tag someone you think could make a great host
Visit one of our awareness stalls
Share our videos and stories with your community
Every young person deserves the chance to thrive, and that starts with someone who believes in them. When you offer a room, you offer so much more – safety, stability, and the confidence to keep going.
This National Supported Lodgings Week, celebrate the heroes taking brave steps forward. And if you can, be the someone who cares.
