Walsall housing scheme to help young people is extended

A Walsall housing project that is helping young people at risk of homelessness has been extended for an additional two years.

The Young Person’s Accommodation Service has been awarded £583,440 to continue providing housing and tenancy management services to care leavers and young, vulnerable people aged between 16 and 29.

The service, which is run by housing association whg in partnership with Walsall Council, was set up in 2014, with whg providing accommodation and intensive housing management services, and Walsall Council providing targeted support for the individuals. To date, it has supported 331 young people to live safely and independently in their first home.

Through the project whg provides 66 homes for young people, along with a semi-independent training flat. They are provided with individual help  and guided as they move successfully into adulthood and learn how to manage their tenancy.

Connie Jennings said: “Over the last eight years we have developed an effective accommodation and intensive housing management service for vulnerable young people who, without this scheme, may require more costly services and interventions in the future.

“The scheme has been hugely successful in giving young people the best opportunity to put down roots, develop a sense of belonging and begin their transition towards independence and adulthood.

“We have had young people joining the programme due to complex vulnerabilities but with help from the scheme they  have overcome these with some moving onto to university, higher education, secured jobs and gone on to have their own families.”