Floating Support / Move-On Accommodation Support
Floating support is a transition stage between the 24 hour care offered at accommodation centres and full independent accommodation.
In Northampton the YMCA provides five shared houses with support for young people, usually leaving a YMCA accommodation centre. Four of the five shared houses are rented from private landlords or Registered Social Landlords. It is hoped to increase the ownership of properties for shared occupation. In addition the YMCA supports around 30 other young people in their own tenancies.
The aims of our floating support service are:
- To promote quality of life, independence and inclusion
- To reduce homelessness and the cost and trauma associated with accommodation breakdown.
- To support residents in moving on from all types of temporary accommodation.
- To provide flexible support that re-engages vulnerable young people who may not be in contact with other services.
- To engage with other agencies to ensure that the individual needs are fully met.
For some, floating support will be the guiding hand as they take the first steps from an accommodation centre towards full independence. For others it may be a temporary intervention to help sustain a tenancy.
The type of support provided varies according to need, but includes setting up home, organising benefit claims, applying for community centre grants, arranging utilities, budgeting, maintaining the property and tenant responsibilities. Each resident is supported by a dedicated keyworker.
Building on the pilot training scheme developed by Kettering Borough Council, the Floating Support Workers are now delivering training to clients in key skills essential to build confidence, self-esteem and for the successful sustainment of their tenancy. Subjects include Benefits, Substance Abuse, Healthy Living Tenant / Landlord Responsibilities, Maintenance and Health and Safety in the Home.
Last updated on 17/06/08 by Phil Sorrell
