Bridging the gap for care experienced young people in South Ayrshire

[07 July 2022]

This week the South Ayrshire Health & Social Care Partnership (HSCP) saw the first resident of Sundrum View receive keys to their new home, as part of a new pilot with South Ayrshire Council's Housing service that aims to bridge the gap for young people leaving care.

Sundrum View children's house provides care and accommodation for up to seven children and young people from the South Ayrshire area. The purpose-built bungalow is situated in a residential area in Coylton, near Ayr.  The house features six bedrooms and one semi-independent living space, all with en-suite amenities.

In partnership with South Ayrshire Council's Housing team, Sundrum View provides Throughcare and Aftercare support to young people (up to the age of 26) who are moving from the Children's House to their own home. 

As part of this work, the independent one-bedroom flat attached to Sundrum View was identified as a resource to provide a valuable stepping stone to those who need it most. Residents of the flat will be able to experience what it would be like to live in their own home, gain key life skills and independence, with the reassurance of knowing that carers are on hand to support them when they need help. 

Linda Given, Service Manager (Children's Services) said, "When a young person enters our care they enter our extended family. Like any young person leaving home for the first time it can be challenging, we want to help reduce anxiety and help young people continue to feel connected and cared for."

The service's new relationship-based approach means that carers from the children's house will retain responsibility for supporting young people in their first home, rather than receiving this support from a new housing support provider. Young people will be able to retain positive relationships with carers and the other young people they have lived with, providing stability and consistency at a challenging time.

Councillor Lee Lyons, cabinet holder for Health and Social Care added, "Moving to a first home can be an isolating and difficult time for young people.  This new approach will help reduce social isolation and promote a sense of safety, support and belonging as the young person moves to their own home.  The impact of the transition from group living to first home will be minimised and supported."

"South Ayrshire Council's Housing Service will work in partnership with HSCP to identify appropriate housing for young people when they have developed the skills and abilities to be successful tenants who feel included in their local communities."

Work will start soon to establish a similar independent living space at Cunningham Place, a children's house based in Ayr.

Tim Eltringham, Director of Social Care said, "South Ayrshire Council has a responsibility to act like parents for all the children and young people in our care. These new resources will be an invaluable help to prepare for the time when a young person no longer needs our support and care to the same extent."

This work is part of South Ayrshire's commitment to the Promise, Scotland's national ambition to love its most vulnerable children and give them the childhood they deserve.