THERE are currently 215 children and young people in the care of Pembrokeshire County Council and of those one in five are aged 16 or over.
So, in addition to recruiting foster carers to provide safe and loving homes for children and young people within the county, the Council also wants to hear from people who can provide a stepping stone for young people moving from foster care to independent living.
Some young people leaving care return home or live with friends but others move on to Supported Lodgings accommodation.
Mandy Thomas, Supported Lodgings Coordinator in the Family Placement Team, the Council’s fostering service, said the Supported Lodgings carers play a vital role.
They provide a safe and secure home to young people aged 16 to 21 from which they can work or study without having to worry about living independently before they are ready to do so.
Mandy added: “The young person will need their own bedroom, bed and storage for their personal belongings, access to a kitchen, bathroom and living room and their own key to the front door.
“Their carers help young people develop skills like cooking and budgeting, as well as providing encouragement and emotional support.”
Jane, who is currently being assessed as a Supported Lodgings provider, said: “I was immediately drawn to it given my own childhood and my experience of going through the care system.
“I was initially very apprehensive about whether it would work for me around my lifestyle but also if I would be suitable to provide this kind of support for a young adult.
“It’s hugely important to me that I know I can give a safe place to someone who needs it and share my experience and life lessons with those that may be struggling as I did going through the care system.
“Meeting Mandy for the first time I was instantly put at ease and felt reassured that this scheme is fantastic and that I have so much I can offer.
“I’ve asked many questions to help me fully understand how the scheme works and Mandy has been able to answer everything and has completely put my mind at ease. The process of assessment itself is very thorough and rightly so, but Mandy has explained everything in detail so that I am prepared and understand from beginning to end of how it all works.
“I’m really looking forward to completing what’s left of the assessment and supporting the young adults that really need that safety net and the opportunities in life that everyone deserves.”
Bridget has been providing a home to young people for two years.
She says that people she talks to are surprised by just how much practical and emotional support there is for someone who provides Supported Lodgings.
She added: “There is the misconception that you are just ‘left to get on with it’ which is not the case. Mandy and I meet regularly and there is always someone from the team available to answer any queries.
“The young people who have lived in my home over the two years have been amazing. I’ve been happy to be part of their journey towards independence by providing stability and security in order for them to thrive and succeed with their lives.
“I highly recommend this role and I hope that there are many more within our community who will consider providing this worthwhile and rewarding support to those of our young people who need it too.” 
One young person who has benefitted greatly from Supported Lodgings, said: “I was once on the street but my carer gave me a bed and a safe place to live. I now have a job and a dream to invest in properties to secure a future for me and my family.”
Another young man added: “I work part time but am hoping to go back to college and have a career in IT. What meant the most to me was being given the space to be me and have carers understand me and care enough to help me feel at home!”
If you think you can help a young person on their journey to independence and would be interested in finding out more about being a Supported Lodgings carer call 01437 774650 or email [email protected].