DISC News Items - Updated 17/10/08

Right step
The Step partnership was set up in 2006. Project manager Clare Singlewood believes its two-pronged approach tackles two of the biggest issues for care leavers: access to accommodation and education or training. Disc offers help before the young person takes up their tenancy and also helps with running a home: making applications for grants and benefits buying furniture and homeware advice on managing money and even basic cookery lessons. Once the young person is stable in the tenancy, Disc workers will look at education and employment.

Young people come to the scheme at different stages: some may have just left care and some may already have a tenancy but are struggling in it.

Singlewood adds: "We work with them prior to the tenancy. We work with them setting up the home and supporting them. When they're no longer chaotic and want education and training then we look at that."

Step works closely with local housing association Housing Hartlepool, which is keen to offer tenancies to young people with a support package in place. Support lasts on average two years, by which time the person should be independent.

Full article can be found here at www.communitycare.co.uk

Updated 17/10/08