Young people who have been in care to have additional support for housing

Wiltshire Council leaders agreed today to a change to the allocation policy for housing to ensure care experienced young people under 25 years can be given Band 1 for housing when they are ready to move into independent accommodation - previously it had been up to 21 years. Band 1 is the highest priority for the allocation of social housing.

Young people who have experienced being in care would be awarded the Priority Band 1 status when it is confirmed they are ready to move into independent accommodation. The agreed changes will also help them continue to live in Wiltshire close to local connections.

The decision forms part of a wider promise the council makes to care experienced young people.  It includes exemption from paying council tax until 25 years and access to a rent guarantee scheme. There is also support with next steps into employment and independence with support towards driving lessons, help with university and opportunities for work experience and favourable access to council apprenticeships. Care experienced young people also have free access to Wiltshire Council run sports centres and contribution towards Wi-Fi costs. The promise to the Wiltshire Council Business Plan to ensure people can live full, healthy and enriched lives.

Cllr Phil Alford, Cabinet Member for Housing said: We are proposing a change to the allocation policy so young people who have been in care and are under 25 years can be given Band 1 for housing when they are ready to move into independent accommodation. All parents want to ensure their young people can become independent adults while knowing their family is there supporting them. As a corporate parent we want our care experienced young people to have that same reassurance and know we are here to provide the support when it's needed.

Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children's Services said: We have a strong commitment to help keep our young people safe. This latest decision is a measure to provide a stable footing as they become adults and move to independent living. The agreement today gives our young people the opportunity to stay close to friends in Wiltshire to keep that local connection while moving onto the next stage of adult life.