Supported Lodgings

Do you have a spare room?

On average, 60 young people aged between 16-17 years old present themselves as homeless in the Surrey Boroughs of Elmbridge, Runnymede and Spelthorne each year. The reasons for becoming homeless vary but the reality is that all are vulnerable, low in confidence and lack the ability to see a way forward. With your hospitality we can work together to bring hope to these young lives.

What is Supported Lodgings?

The aim of Supported Lodgings is to bridge this vulnerable season of transition from homelessness by placing a young person into a family or individual's (host) home for up to a year. This gift of hospitality provides security, stability and confidence in order to cope with the move towards independence. The host does not have parental responsibility for the young person, but are asked to help nurture skills such as cooking, budgeting, or shopping economically. All hosts are trained and supported by east to west's Supported Lodgings Team who also work alongside the young person to bring about positive outcomes in their lives. The end goal is that the young person moves onto supported housing, safe independent living or reconciliation back into the excluded home.

Who can be a Supported Lodgings host?

We need people from all walks of life, married or single, with or without children, young or not so young.

Some questions to consider are:

Do you enjoy the company of young people?
Do you want to make a positive difference in a young person's life?
Do you enjoy a challenge?
Can you be graceful and pastorally responsive in relationships?
Can you be an advocate and a friend?
Can you be a warm and patient individual to a young person who needs that level of commitment and compassion?

All that we ask in addition is that you are in good health, have a spare room and willing to share your home with a young person.

What support do hosts receive?

Supporting young people in this way is an exciting and rewarding experience in itself; however you will receive reimbursement to cover the cost of your hospitality. In addition you will receive training and have an allocated support worker whilst a young person is with you to provide support and advice.

How do I find out more?

If you would like to know more about becoming a host or have any questions please contact our Supported Lodgings Team. We would be happy to send you a full information pack along with an application form.

Call 01932 571301 or email Catherine.

East to West