We will consider a number of factors when identifying the properties used for the purpose of placing young care leavers, including location and facilities. We will also look carefully at the information provided about the YP in order to match them to the appropriate setting.
I. Location
Before offering a placement opportunity to a YP we will consider location, as it is essential for the success of a placement. A number of YP express their own preference and like a location that is familiar to them.
For most YP it is important to have good transport links and local amenities such as shops and access to healthcare. We also consider areas with appropriate amenities such as schools, colleges, banks and good transport networks.
For UASC YP it is important to be in a location providing access to college offering ESOL classes and, for some YP, access to culturally specific food and access to places of worship.
We will also ensure that every property is in a safe location by conducting a Locality Risk Assessment for each property before offering it.
II. Facilities
As a baseline, all our property will be fully furnished, including all kitchen amenities. All of our shared accommodation will offer a shared living space and a garden. We aim to provide en-suite bedrooms for all of our YP. We will offer a TV and video games as minimum and other activities e.g. a pool table, space permitting.
We understand that young people may have moved around a lot before they move in with us.
In that respect we try to provide a stable placement. Somewhere a young person calls home.
We will work with each young person to help maintain their placement until they are ready to move onto their own tenancy.
As part of our service, we will help each young person to do that when the time is right for them.
Under the West Midlands Supported Accommodation Framework. We offer a number of accommodation options.
They range from single accommodation with outreach support to Staffed 24/7 supported accommodation. We also provide bespoke or tailor made service for vulnerable young people at risk exploitation or a risk to other young people.
