It’s the culmination of a major three-year £2million+ social housing programme to give often vulnerable 18-25 year olds the chance for stable, safe accommodation of their own - and support to help them move forward in life. 

The conversion of a property in Ross-on-Wye completes a total of 15 new units in the county dedicated to young people including care leavers, those who have been rough sleeping for months, people previously housed in temporary accommodation, and have faced other challenges. They are charged social rents, and get support from specialist officers and housing provider CCP to live independently, manage their tenancies, and prepare for the future. 

Cllr Carole Gandy, Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing  said:

“This is about giving young people who have faced all types of barriers the support and opportunities they deserve. We know that having a place of your own, safety and support to transition from their previous environment and experiences can make the world of difference.

“Not only does this help change people’s lives now, but it will also do for many years ahead. When young people move on, they are equipped to take the next step and transition to even more independence, and other young people such as care leavers can move in and benefit from the support. I am proud of Council officers’ and partners’ work for the people who need our support the most - giving young people real opportunities for a better future.”

Herefordshire Council had won funding from a range of sources including the government’s Single Homeless Accommodation Programme, the Better Care Fund, and Section 106 contributions from developers to purchase, build and renovate properties for single-person use. Funding was also secured for specialist support workers to help equip young people with key life skills including managing bills, the tenancy itself and looking after their homes.

There were previously no such properties available for young people in Ross-on-Wye, but the new development - converting a single house into four self-contained flats, adds to the 11 units already opened in Hereford.

Photo at the new property for 18-25 year olds in Ross-on-Wye: (l-r)

• Chris Hampton, Rough Sleepers and Outreach Team Lead
• Tina Wood, Housing Development Officer
• Cllr Jonathan Lester, Leader, Herefordshire Council
• Cllr Carole Gandy, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health & Wellbeing
• Paul Brazier, Service Manager, CCP