People in Stone and across Staffordshire with a spare bedroom could receive £213.09 a week by offering a supportive home to a young person leaving care.
Staffordshire County Council is looking for more Supported Lodgings hosts after the service received the highest possible rating from Ofsted.
Hosts receive a weekly allowance of £213.09, along with additional contributions paid by the young person.
Supported Lodgings is aimed at young people aged 16 to 20 who are leaving care and beginning the move towards living independently.
Rather than providing foster care, hosts offer a young person a room in their home and support them as they learn practical skills such as cooking, budgeting and managing everyday responsibilities.
The council recruits, trains and supports hosts, who can continue working while taking part in the scheme.
Ofsted inspectors rated the Staffordshire service “Consistently Strong”, praising its leadership, management and safeguarding arrangements.
Inspectors also highlighted the progress young people were making and the support they received to prepare for independent living.
Nick Lakin, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said
“This is great news and is testament to the hard work, dedication and compassion of our Supported Lodgings team and the incredible hosts who open their homes to young people leaving care.
“We are committed to giving every young person the best possible start in adult life, and this recognition shows that we are providing the safe, supportive and nurturing environment they need to thrive.
“Our hosts play a key role in this, and we are always looking for new hosts to come forward. If you think you could make a difference, please get in touch with the team.”
People interested in becoming a Supported Lodgings host can find further information and register their interest through Staffordshire County Council’s website.
