Semi-independent LIVING
Support for care leavers' transition and life skills
Our semi-independent housing is more than just a place to live. They bridge the gap between childhood and adulthood, preparing children for the challenges of living independently.
Some young people have experienced leaving care as ‘the instant expectation of adulthood’. All of a sudden, they are assumed to know how to cook for themselves, run a household, and manage their finances, all at once and without support.
This is why spending 16+ weeks at home prior to actually leaving care can be extremely beneficial. We provide secure, comfortable homes for care leavers, homeless teenagers, and unaccompanied asylum-seeking children to learn the life skills they will need to transition to independent living.
The type of accommodation we provide varies according to the age of the young person. Staff will always support young people in working towards their goals and building their confidence for the future, regardless of which of our services they live in.
Our aftercare team provides advice and support to care leavers in south London as they work towards independence. Their drop-in service is open to any young person seeking advice from staff on issues such as managing tenancies, drug and alcohol awareness, or finding work.
- Personal organizational abilities
- Support Writing CVs / career guidance
- Developing emotional awareness
- Support with self esteem and assertiveness
- Support with domestic abuse issues
- Personal Empowerment and speaking up (Youth Board and weekly house meetings)
- Budget Planner
- Assistance opening a bank account
- Knowledge of cards (debit/credit/store loyalty, nectar)
- Managing household bills
- Participating in the YLT youth board and helping to make the service better current and future residents.
- Obtaining an Oyster card
- Taxation and national insurance
- Getting the most from your money
- Debt avoidance and budgeting skills
- Making benefit claims
- Student loans (bursary and higher education)
- Going to the gym and participating in other recreational and sporting activities
- Shopping for healthy foods on a shoestring budget
- Attending doctor/dentist/clinic appointments
- Activities that promote emotional well-being (like shared house meals and group outings).
- Volunteering programs (Internal and external)
Our semi-independent services are available in West London and South London