There are several accommodation options when you are moving on to independence. Your accommodation needs should be identified in your ‘Pathway Plan' with your Social Worker or Personal Advisor.

Leaving Care Grant
You may be entitled to a one-off Leaving Care Grant so you can pay for equipment that you need if you are setting up home independently, such as fridge, cooker, furniture.

Community Care Grant
You may be entitled to apply for a Community Care Grant. For more information on how to get your grant, speak to your personal advisor or Social Worker.

What if I am homeless?
If you are a care leaver and find yourself homeless, are under 21 and have left care you will be classed as a priority by your local council for housing. Your local authority has a duty to give you ‘appropriate accommodation’.

For more detailed information on housing we suggest you contact Shelter who provide a free, national telephone advice line staffed by trained housing advisers and run a network of local housing advice centres

Shelter, 88 Old Street, London EC1V 9HU
Shelterline free helpline 0808 800 4444 (seven days a week from 8am to midnight)
Email: info@shelter.org.uk - www.shelter.org.uk

WALES

If you are living in Wales, we suggest you contact
Shelter Cymru (housemate), 25 Walter Road, Swansea SA1 5NN.
Tel: 01792 469 400.
www.housemate.org.uk

Get Connected Helpline: 0808 808 4994 (every day 1-11pm)
Email: help@getconnected.org.uk - www.getconnected.org.uk
UK-wide email and helpline for vulnerable young people and children, including runaways and homeless people. Offers support on many issues.

Tips on what to look for in your accommodation
When you receive an offer of housing it would be worth looking out for the following
Any damp?
Broken windows?
Is the gas working?
Is there electricity?
Is there hot water?
Is there any heating?
Do you have to share kitchen/bathroom?
You have a right to ask about your neighbours. Once you sign a tenancy agreement, you will be responsible for the property while you are living in it.

DO NOT SIGN A TENANCY AGREEMENT UNTIL YOU ARE SURE