Supported lodgings - Sarah's story

Sarah's mum looked into fostering when she was younger, and she thinks this is what first planted the seed in her head. Sarah opted to provide supported lodgings because she wanted to continue working full time whilst also supporting young people and providing them with opportunities.

Having previously worked with young people as a volunteer in the cadets, Sarah has always been passionate about making a difference in young people's lives.

Through the seven different people she has provided supported lodgings for so far, she has surprised herself: "I surprised myself in having three young people placed with me at the same time, because I think I'd only ever set out to have one!

"Every young person is so different, and the relationships I've had with each of them in the time I've been a supported lodgings provider has been so different. Some of them want a maternal figure, some of them want a best friend, some of them want you to be a big sister. Knowing what each person wants and needs, and adapting my approach to that is so important."

18-year-old Ellie has been living in supported lodgings with Sarah for a year and a half now, and she appreciates the unique support she receives and the special bond they have. "If I'm quiet or my room is messy, Sarah can tell there's something up. I'm so open with Sarah, I could speak to her about anything.

"I don't feel like I've got to keep stuff in anymore. When I used to do that, it got to a point where I felt like I was going to explode. But I can tell Sarah stuff now."

As well as emotional support, Ellie has learned practical skills from living in supported lodgings. Cooking, cleaning, and managing her money are a few of the most important ones.

"I used to say - Sarah, how do you cook pasta?", laughs Ellie. "But now I've learned to cook and clean. I have more confidence in myself. I'm able to speak with other people, whereas at the start I just didn't want to speak to anyone. I'm much more open now".

Sarah has also noticed big changes in Ellie over the time she's known her: "When people first come in, and they've been through trauma, it can be very much one-word conversations. But once they've been here a while, they can talk for a very long time!"

Although she forms strong bonds with the young people she provides for, Sarah feels proudest when they're ready to move on.

"I supported my second young person when she got her first house and helped decorate it. Just seeing that progress they make and that they're ready to move on means I've done my job well."

For Ellie, it's the relationships she's formed with other young people. "The other day one of the other girls I live with said something that nearly made me cry", she explained. "She turned around and said 'Ellie, you know what? You're like a sister to me.'"