A new scheme has been launched in Tameside to enable young care leavers to turn a house into a home and develop the skills they need to live independently.

‘The House Project’ is a life-changing nationwide initiative that brings together groups of young care leavers, to support  them in developing life skills from property maintenance to cooking and financial management and provides them with a property to renovate – which then becomes their home.

As well as teaching practical skills, the House Project also enables care experienced young people to create a community, providing friendship and emotional support and helping them to build resilience.

Tameside and Stockport councils are working collaboratively to develop a local House Project and held a launch event where young people were joined by professionals from commissioning, housing, leaving care and social work to learn how the House Project can really make a difference to care experienced young people and provide a stable and secure place to live.

Tameside Council’s Deputy Executive Leader Councillor Bill Fairfoull, who has responsibility for Children and Families, said: “I’m delighted that care leavers in Tameside will be able to benefit from this fantastic scheme, which has made a huge difference to those involved in other areas of the UK.

“It can be extremely challenging for young people leaving care to find suitable housing, but The House Project addresses this and helps provide them with important skills, relationships and experience that will set them up for life.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved for establishing this project in Tameside and I wish the young people taking part all the best as they create a home for themselves and make their way in the world.”

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