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Step by Step leading the way with Supportive Lodgings

Late last year, to mark the 40th Anniversary of the BBC drama documentary 'Cathy Come Home', which put homelessness on the public agenda, the Communities Secretary, Ruth Kelly, MP, delivered a speech entitled 'Tackling the changing face of homelessness'. In her speech Ruth Kelly said that "it is unacceptable for a civilized society like ours to expect homeless 16 and 17 year olds to be on their own in bed and breakfast hotels. This is one of the worse faces of homelessness today. We are making a commitment today that, by 2010, 16 and 17 year olds will not be placed in bed and breakfast hotels unless it is an emergency. One measure is that local authorities and local partners will establish supportive lodgings schemes across the country".

Step by Step has been successfully operating Supportive Lodgings for almost ten years. The scheme provides accommodation for young people with householders who provide both a room in their home and support, so that the young person develops life skills, finds independence and then moves on to their own accommodation.

Amanda Dubarry, Chief Executive said; "We are delighted that Supportive Lodgings has been recognised by the government as one of the best ways of tackling the issues associated with youth homelessness. It comes as no surprise to us as we have seen hundreds of young people benefit significantly from living in a supportive homely environment rather than being forced into bed and breakfast accommodation that is entirely inappropriate for young people."

Following the Ruth Kelly speech, Step by Step is pleased to announce it has secured further contracts with local authorities and expanded existing ones. We now run Supportive Lodgings Schemes with Hampshire County Council Care Leavers and Supporting People Teams, Rushmoor Borough Council, Surrey Heath Borough Council and East Hampshire District Council.

Norman Ashcroft, Supportive Lodgings Project Manager said; "The number of young people seeking help from us through local authorities is steadily increasing. Our schemes aim to bridge the gap between home or being in care and living independently in the community. The aim is for the young person to eventually move on to independent living. Some need a lot of support, others need very little, but they all need encouragement to help them mature. The end result can be very rewarding for everyone."

CASE STUDY - The carer (Justine's story)

CASE STUDY - The client (Isabel's story)

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