Regenda’s care leavers service given green light until at least 2025
In 2017, Regenda Homes launched its first ever care leavers scheme. Based in Wirral and funded by Wirral Council, we converted a disused house into a beautiful home containing three self-contained apartments for young people aged 16 to 18 who had recently left care, providing a steppingstone to independent accommodation. Due to the success of this service, we launched a further two schemes in 2020, increasing the number of young people we support at any one time to 11. Following a contract tender, Regenda Homes has been successful in continuing to deliver this service until at least 2025.
Since its launch, the service has supported 11 young people into their own home. Dedicated support workers provide intensive services, including:
- Empowering young care leavers to live independently
- Maintaining a tenancy agreement
- Help with budgeting and managing debts
- Access to higher education
- Access to employment
- Access to other support services
- Referrals to other housing services or specialist support services.
In 2020, seven young people accessed training and education services, with three moving into part or full-time employment.
One care leaver said: “From the moment I arrived, the staff have had a clear focus on my happiness and wellbeing and have taken a genuine interest in my life, both inside and outside of the home, getting to know me as an individual rather than just another child passing through the care system. The level of support provided is ideal for young people who are on the verge of leaving the care system and is really focused on looking towards independence. I truly enjoy being in the house and feel as though I'd be a different person if I hadn't moved in.”
The care leavers schemes provide a safe, secure and nurturing place for young people to call home and the Support Workers create beautiful homes complete with welcome hampers, pizza nights and Christmas celebrations.
Andy Carberry, Director of Care and Support, said: “I am delighted that Regenda Homes has been chosen to continue delivering this unique service. The impact that these homes have on the young people we support is huge and I know there are exciting services planned over the next few years.”
Simone White, Director of Children, Families and Education, Wirral Borough Council said: “We are also delighted to have the opportunity to continue to work alongside Regenda in the delivery of this innovative tiered support model for Care Leavers, living in high quality accommodation and receiving quality support.”