Help at hand for young homeless (From Penarth Times)

Help at hand for young homeless

PENARTH'S vulnerable youngsters can now get help from a ground-breaking scheme aimed at finding them somewhere to live.

Young care leavers and homeless youngsters can turn to the Friendly Lodgings Scheme for good quality, supportive accommodation.

The purpose of the scheme, run by Llanmau, is to provide an option for young people who would prefer to live in a family environment before moving on to more independent living.

Based at JIGSO Project, 240 Holton Road, Barry, the scheme officially opened recently thanks to funding from the Children's Services Department of the Vale of Glamorgan Council.

One local teenager said: "When I became homeless, it was a really frightening experience. I was put into a hostel, but some of the older people staying there gave me a hard time, bullying me and taking my stuff.

"I am living somewhere much better now, but I would have loved the chance to have been able to stay with people who were around to help me when I really needed it. I think this is a great idea - it would have been perfect for me when I was younger."

Llanmau's director, Frances Beecher, said: "This is a much-needed project, especially in the light of the recent legislation which recognises the vulnerability of these young people within our communities."

Llanmau is currently recruiting people to become friendly lodgings providers. Becky Roberts, Friendly Lodgings Scheme development worker, said: "We are aiming to recruit people from all backgrounds, living in all areas of the Vale of Glamorgan who have a spare bedroom and are interested in helping a young person. In return lodgings providers will receive payment, training and support."

For more information contact The JIGSO Project on 01446 748852.