Supported lodging for a young person leaving care

About the scheme

Supported Lodgings Providers (SLPs) provide space in their home for care experienced young adults aged 18-21 years. Arrangements can extend to 25 years if the young adult is in full-time education.

The service aims to enhance young adult's life skills, provide practical and emotional support and be a steppingstone towards independent living.

To apply to become a registered SLP, applicants need to:

• live in, or close to Lewisham.
• have a spare room.
• be interested in supporting young adults' transition from care to independent living
• have time to offer 10 hours per week of dedicated support, for example, helping with budgeting or meal preparation.

How to become a provider

All SLP applicants must attend preparation training and complete an assessment with a Lewisham social worker to establish if they are suitable for the role. If this is successful, they are presented to Lewisham’s Fostering panel to recommend their approval as a registered SLP for Lewisham Children and Young People’s Service. 

SLPs receive a weekly fee when providing a full-time placement for a young adult, currently at £255.00 per week. Young adults will have their own income. 

All Lewisham SLPs receive support from the scheme coordinator. They need to be available to meet the coordinator at minimum every 6 weeks, attend support group meetings and complete at least three training courses per year. 

If you are interested in being an SLP or require further information, please make email: fosteringrecruitment@lewisham.gov.uk or by phone on 0800 015 0129.