New package of support for care leavers in Stockton-on-Tees

Care leavers in Stockton-on-Tees are set to receive an improved offer of additional, personalised support from the Council to help prepare them for adulthood.

Among the suite of measures available from Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is the provision of a corporate rent guarantor to help care experienced young people access private rented accommodation.

The 12-month pilot scheme will allow them to overcome barriers when securing stable and affordable housing, such as a lack of rental history or financial instability, and to live independently.

And as part of the support on offer, the Council's Employability Promise means that young people leaving care can also receive more help into work through one-to-one mentoring, paid work experience placements, training and apprenticeship opportunities, and improved long-term employment prospects.

As well as offering practical support, the Council will also formally recognise "Care Experienced" as a locally Protected Characteristic. The recognition acknowledges that people with care experience can face discrimination, stigma, and prejudice, and shows the Council's commitment to providing equal opportunities.

A meeting of full Council on Wednesday 24 July heard how the measures agreed by the Council's Cabinet will help young people aged 16 to 25 to feel safe, live independently, achieve employment and maintain long-term stability.

The proposal to formally recognise "Care Experienced" as a locally protected characteristic was aproved at the full Council meeting. 

Councillor Lisa Evans, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said: "Leaving home can be challenging for anyone but it can be particularly daunting for young people in care, so it is vitally important that we continue to support them as they transition into adulthood.

"By making sure they have access to affordable housing, employment and training opportunities, and personalised expert advice, we will offer a helping hand to ensure they're equipped to live independently and build a stable future in the long-term.

"All young people deserve an equal start to life, so as well as the practical help available, our recognition of 'Care Experienced' as a locally protected characteristic shows the Council's commitment to reducing disparities faced by care leavers and providing fair opportunities for all."

The support will be administered by assigned Personal Advisors working in partnership with the Council's Employment and Training Hub, Learning and Development Team and Housing teams.

And one care-experienced person, 20-year-old Reece, has already benefited from the help available, having started a work placement in the Council's Heating Ventilation and Electrical (HV&E) service in February 2024.

Working closely with his mentor and the HV&E team, he's been able to gain valuable skills and experience in joinery, painting and decorating, repairs, and maintenance, including home adaptations for people with disabilities.

Reece's hard work and efforts, along with the Council's support, have also seen him secure a level two apprenticeship in Property Maintenance whilst working within the Council's HIA (Home Improvement Agency).

As part of the apprenticeship, he will also complete the trusted assessor level three course for staff working with people living with a disability.

Reece said: "Before doing this I worked in retail, then did a Prince's Trust course and painting and decorating at college, so it's something I have always been interested in doing.

"I sat down with the team at the Council, and we went through the forms to apply. The team is great and I'm learning a lot with them."

Reece also meets monthly with his dedicated Personal Advisor to check his progress and ensure he receives the appropriate support.

He adds: "I would say to anyone - if you believe in yourself anything is possible."

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