Simplifying supported housing
Question
I'm 16 and I really want to move out of my parent's house. There's loads of trouble at home and I just don't want to be there any more. Are there any units I can live in?
Answer
Deciding to leave home is a big step and there will be lots for you to think about but there is help available.
From what you say it sounds like you're interested in supported housing schemes. Supported housing includes a variety of different kinds of housing such as hostels, shared houses or a flat of your own. You normally get help from support workers who visit you regularly or work in the same building. They often help you with benefits, housing, training, education or anything else you might need extra help with. One example of supported housing is a Foyer. Foyers provide housing, training and support for young people. There are foyer schemes around the UK.
To find out what supported housing exists in your area talk to a local advice agency such as a Citizens Advice Bureau or a housing aid centre. If you have a Connexions worker or a social worker, they may be able to give you information and might be able to refer you to a local supported housing scheme.
There are often waiting lists for supported housing so it may not be the best option for you if you need somewhere to stay quickly. If this is the case, then as you are 16 your local council is likely to have a legal responsibility to provide you with help if they class you as homeless.
You've said there is trouble at home, but not what is going on, if you'd like to talk to someone about what's happening at home you can contact SupportLine on 020 8554 9004 or email them on info@supportline.org.uk.
You might be classed as homeless if your parents throw you out or if it's unsafe for you to stay at home. You could also be homeless if it was unsafe to stay at home, for instance if your parents were hitting you. Help from the council might be provided by social services or by the housing department. You can find the number for both departments in your local yellow pages.
If you are homeless and in an emergency and want to speak to someone before you contact the council then you can phone Shelterline, a free, confidential, national housing advice phoneline, on 0808 800 4444. If you would like to speak to someone about other services for young people in your area you can call Get Connected, a free, confidential, national phoneline for young people, on 0808 808 4994 between 1pm and 11pm daily.
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