Funding for five more years of supported housing for young
FUNDING accommodation for young people needing support around independent living and substance misuse has been secured from the States for at least another five years.
Action for Children supports around 140 young people per year, and, together with the Health Improvement Commission, is working to combat homelessness through the use of seven training flats and a broader educational approach to learning basic life skills, such as bill management and shopping for food.
Employment & Social Security partially funded the new lease and ESS president Peter Roffey said young people would likely be prioritised for social housing once they leave the flats.
‘Someone could have nowhere to go or have a planned exit – we consider
sofa-surfing and anyone who has unstable accommodation to be homeless,’ said Aaron Davies, children’s services manager at Action for Children.
Those who end up using the accommodation often have nowhere else to live, have a planned exit from their current residence or would struggle to live on their own.
‘It will take about six to eight weeks to get a flat, but for some young people our flats may not be the best option,’ said Mr Davies.
While the flats do serve to support individuals with substance misuse issues, that is only one aspect of their purpose.
‘We offer a substance misuse service to young people who may have issues, but many don’t have issues with substance misuse.
‘This support ensures we can continue to work towards our vision that every child and young person in Guernsey has a safe and happy childhood and the foundations they need to thrive,’ said Mr Davies.
Each occupancy is limited to six months to allow for more people to benefit from the service. From there, service users will be offered a smoother transition into social housing.
‘Part of the deal is that we would offer social housing as a priority,’ said Deputy Roffey.
He said that although that did not mean the young people would be housed immediately, the six-month occupancy provided the opportunity to support more people in need.
‘We’re grateful to AFC for the brilliant work that they do in supporting young people and it’s great to be able to partner with them. I’m certain that many people would be able to attest to the significant role that this charity has played in their lives,’ he said.
n The new agreement began in January and will run until December 2026.
