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Young people are at risk of failing to sustain their social tenancies, especially in the first year. However, local support and advice may be available from their housing provider or relevant voluntary sector organisation.
Although some areas will not be able to provide much choice, advisers and registered providers to young people can still help their clients to find a social rented property that is right for them, that they can afford, that offers support if they need it, and is reasonably close to exiting family and friends and other support networks.
Where available, shared social tenancies could provide a good starting point for young people taking the first steps to independent living.
Before taking up a tenancy, young people, especially those who have previously lived in supported accommodation, can participate in pre-tenancy training programmes.
Registered providers may require new young tenants to participate in training programmes as a condition of taking up their new tenancies.
See Pre-tenancy training and advice for more information.
Once a new tenancy has been taken up, levels of support can vary depending on the needs of the tenant, from floating support to intensive tenancy support. Some can also be tailored to address specific needs such as drug or alcohol issues, HIV and other health problems, or be aimed at members of a minority ethnic community.
See the page Continuing tenancy support for more information.
Young people who are unemployed or on a low wage may be eligible for housing-related benefit and council tax support. For more information, see the benefits section.
Young people claiming housing-related benefit may also be eligible for a discretionary housing payment (DHP). Criteria for these will vary, and the amount given will be for a short time only.
See the Shelter Housing Advice website for more on DHPs.
Young people claiming benefits may be eligible for budgeting loans, which must be paid back.
See the Shelter Housing Advice website for more on budgeting loans.
Ongoing advice and information should include:
Example- Derby Homes: Helping you manage your home