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Vale of White Horse District Council
Abbey House, Abbey Close,
Abingdon, OX14 3JE
Email: comments@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Telephone: 01235 520202

Supported lodgings for young people

Supported Lodgings is a scheme set up to provide housing for homeless young people within people’s homes, with people known as hosts. It is run by BYHP, which provides a range of services specifically designed to help young people. More information about the services on offer can be found on the BYHP website.

Why do young people need supported lodgings?

Some young people are not able to live at home and would benefit from developing their independence while living with a responsible adult in the safety and security of their home. 

Who can become a supported lodgings host?

Supported Lodgings hosts come from all walks of life and backgrounds. It does not matter if you are married, single or living as a couple and there are no restrictions based on your age, ethnicity, religious or sexual orientation.

What do I need to become a supported lodgings host?

  • A spare room and a willingness to share your home with a Young Person between the ages of 16-25.
  • An interest and concern for the welfare of young people
  • A commitment to treating young people with respect, care and sensitivity
  • An ability to communicate effectively with young people and to support them in an empowering way
  • An ability to work in a positive and professional manner with the Supported Lodgings Team and other agencies
  • Patience, compassion, understanding and a good sense of humour!

Are there any reasons why I can’t become a supported lodgings host?

Extensive references are required for all prospective Supported Lodgings hosts, including police checks. Only certain serious criminal convictions will automatically disqualify you from becoming a host.

What are the supported lodgings hosts expected to do?

Hosts, through the support and supervision of the Supported Lodgings Coordinator, will deliver support to the young person staying with them designed to develop the skills and confidence they need to live independently and maintain accommodation. The type and level of support will be agreed before each young person moves in.

What are the benefits of becoming a supported lodgings host?

  • Being a Supported Lodgings host is a rewarding occupation, which can be carried out alongside your existing employment or as a full time profession
  • You will be paid a support charge to deliver the support to the young person and paid rent for the use of the room
  • You will be provided with ongoing professional training and development
  • You will be supported and supervised throughout the placement. 

What do hosts and young people say about the experience of living within supported lodgings?

“It was made to feel like home” – Zoe Keogh

“Be a Supported Lodgings Host is both challenging and rewarding, we have a lot of laughs and I find it to be a really positive experience” – Thelma Phillips

How do I apply to become a supported lodgings host?

We suggest that the first step is to have an informal chat with the Supported Lodgings Team.  We welcome all your enquiries and will discuss any aspect of Supported Lodgings with you. More information is available on the BYHP website, or by using the following contact details:

Talk to us
  • 0808 1001617
  • Vale of White Horse District Council, Abbey House, Abingdon, OX14 3JE