Supported Lodgings Scheme
Open your home and expand your heart
YMCA St Paul’s Group Supported Lodgings Scheme provides a safe and supportive home for young people aged 16-25, often those who are homeless, leaving care, or in crisis. Individuals referred to the programme live with host families, who provide a room and offer support with various aspects of independent living.
Case Studies
Young Person: Mr M.T. (21 years old)
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How did you first hear about the Supported Lodgings Scheme?
When I arrived in the UK from France, I was told about the Supported Lodging Scheme by Social Services. At the time, I couldn’t look after myself and didn’t have the skills to live independently.
What were your thoughts or feelings when you first moved in with your host?
I felt safe straight away. My host felt like a good mother figure, and that helped me settle in.
How has living with a host made a difference in your life?
It helped me become more focused and organised in my daily life.
What kind of support have you received from your host?
She’s helped me with cleaning, tidying my room, and learning how to cook and manage my time.
Can you share a memory that stands out from your time in the scheme?
I really enjoyed going out with other young people on Jack Petchey Foundation evenings. It was fun and gave me a sense of belonging.
How have you grown or changed since joining the scheme?
I’ve learned about British culture, improved my English, and developed time management and personal development skills.
What would you like other young people in similar situations to know?
I’d encourage them to give it a try—it’s a safe place to grow, learn, and plan your future.
Anything you’d like to say to your host or those considering becoming one?
To my host—thank you for being so kind and motherly. To future hosts—please continue to support young people like me.
Young Person: Mr J.O. (21 years old)
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How did you first hear about the Supported Lodgings Scheme?
I was referred to the scheme by my social worker.
What were your thoughts or feelings when you first moved in?
I was excited to be in a family environment and finally have some stability in my life.
How has living with a host made a difference?
It gave me peace, structure, and a sense of home. I finally feel settled.
What kind of support have you received from your host?
Daily support with life skills, emotional guidance, and someone to talk to—it’s made a big difference.
Can you share a standout memory from your time in the scheme?
Travelling to Jamaica on a missionary trip with my hosts and our church was unforgettable.
How have you grown or changed?
I’m much more stable and mature now. I’ve really grown up since moving in.
What would you like other young people to know?
It’s been a really positive experience for me. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a fresh start in a caring environment.
Anything you’d like to say to your host or to those thinking of becoming one?
My hosts have done an amazing job. It means a lot to have somewhere that feels like family.
Hosts: Sandra and Delroy
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What inspired you to become Supported Lodgings Hosts?
My mother-in-law was a foster carer, and seeing the positive impact she had on young people inspired us. At first, we didn’t have the space to foster, but after buying a bigger home, we found out about the Supported Lodgings Scheme through a flyer near Uxbridge. That was over 15 years ago—and we’ve never looked back. We now use three rooms in our home to support young people.
What was it like welcoming a young person for the first time?
We were mindful of the emotional needs of the young person, and how our own children would respond. Thankfully, our kids were very understanding, and we quickly created a positive and respectful environment.
How have your relationships with young people developed over time?
We’ve maintained strong bonds with about 95% of the young people we’ve supported. Many stay in touch after moving on—we’ve even been invited to weddings!
What kind of day-to-day support do you provide?
· Cooking
· Budgeting and paying bills
· Cleaning and personal organisation
· Support with apprenticeships and job searches
· Banking and managing money
· Encouragement to maintain work routines
· Emotional support and guidance
How has hosting changed your day-to-day life?
It’s been a true blessing. We love the energy and seeing young people grow and thrive. It brings us joy to be part of their journey.
What impact do you think you’ve had on the young people?
Our family values, work ethic, and encouragement have influenced them. Many strive to succeed because they’ve seen that belief in themselves reflected back at them.
And what impact has it had on you?
Delroy says he’s developed more patience and a deeper understanding of young people today. I (Sandra) always wanted a big family—hosting has made that dream come true.
What would you say to someone thinking of becoming a host?
If you’ve got the space and a caring heart, go for it. Be open, empathetic, and willing to listen. Don’t do it for money—do it to make a real difference. Delroy adds: “It’s about helping young people go further than we did.”
If you could describe being a host in three words, what would they be?
Satisfaction. Love. Rewarding.
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Supported Lodgings
I was a kid who had nothing – no shelter, no family, no home. Without Supported Lodgings Scheme, I’d have been on the streets, but now I gets top university grades.
-Parth
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Learn more about Supported Lodgings Scheme
I have hosted 4 young people in my home. You do earn money, but the real reward is the impact.
-Sandra
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