The service aims to make sure that young people have access to all the practical resources they may need, that the accommodation they are staying in is of a suitable standard and that the young person has effective support around them to ensure the best chance of their tenancy and future plans succeeding.
The service aims to fill any gaps in support that can sometimes be experienced by young people when they transition into exempt sector accommodation, to get tenancies off to a great start and help ensure young people avoid becoming homeless once more.
How does it work?
Referrals come internally from the Accommodation Finding Service also based at St Basils Birmingham Youth Hub where young people who are homeless or at risk come for help and advice. Wherever possible the first contact from the Homeless Transition Worker with the young person will be within 24 hours of the referral and will involve them contacting the individual by phone or in person. The Homeless Transition Worker will then take the young person to their accommodation, help them settle in, and will also offer to make follow-up visits.
The Homeless Transition Worker Service forms part of a wider commissioning model from Birmingham City Council which aims to support vulnerable adults. The service will maintain contact for up to six months, conducting periodic checks. It will also work in partnership with other organisations to ensure the young person’s support needs are met in full.
In conclusion
The overall aim of our new Homeless Transition Worker Service is to help vulnerable young people by ensuring their accommodation is of a suitable standard and they have everything they need to live healthy, happy and independent lives within the community.