In August 2010 The Benjamin Foundation launched a recruitment drive with a difference.  The Norfolk Charity began a search for families in North Norfolk who were prepared to open up their homes to a young person with nowhere to live.

The Heart & Home Supported Lodgings service is now well established but more families are urgently needed to provide a homeless young person, usually aged 16 or 17, with a room of their own in a family home. 

After a successful start, the scheme is has been expanded and host families are being sought throughout the county.  The young person could stay for a couple of nights or a couple of years; it depends on the needs of the individual and the family.

Host families are expected to provide a base level of support and a stable home environment.  The young person needs his or her own bedroom with access to kitchen, bathroom and living area.  Before being placed with a Supported Lodgings host family, every young person is carefully assessed and matched to the right family.  The scheme is not designed for young people who require more intensive support.

Families who are accepted as hosts receive comprehensive training in Child Protection issues as well as going through The Benjamin Foundation’s own induction course.  Families receive a support payment whilst the young person stays with them.

You can find out more by down loading the full news release or calling Matt Garrod or Letasha Reeve on  01692 500999.

You can also download an application form here.