FCHO and Oldham Council are partnering on a new initiative to help young people with independent living

First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) and Oldham Council are partnering on a new initiative to help young people leaving care receive support with housing and independent living.

The Leaving Care Pledge recognises care experienced young people often face additional challenges when moving into adulthood and could need support managing a tenancy or accessing help when things become difficult. 

The pledge, which has been developed with local, care experienced young people, was signed on Friday (November 28) by FCHO and the council at FCHO’s offices in Union Street.

In attendance was the Mayor of Oldham Councillor Eddie Moores, FCHO deputy chief executive and executive director of corporate services Andy Ewart, care leavers and council and FCHO staff. 

Mayor Moores and his wife Kath have fostered children since 1978 so the pledge is close to their hearts. 

Cllr Moores said: “This is a great initiative for young people. We need to make sure these young people moving out of the care system into their own homes are made to feel safe and secure.” 

As part of the commitment, FCHO and Oldham Council will offer care leavers direct access to a suitable home for their first tenancy. 

A Tenancy Readiness Programme covering areas like budgeting, moving in, community safety, and wellbeing is to be set up. The partnership is also looking to use the voice of care experienced individuals to shape future improvements. 

Other support will be available such as providing moving-in packs and drop-in access through community hubs. 

“This important partnership between FCHO and the council reinforces our commitment to creating positive futures for local people and tackling inequality,” said Mr Ewart. 

“Those leaving care do need extra support and failing to do so runs the risk of tenancy failure, rent arrears, ASB or even worse so this pledge will allow every young care leaver the chance for a positive and supported tenancy experience at a crucial time in their lives. 

“It also demonstrates FCHO is not just a landlord, we are an organisation that is determined to help its communities and cares about its customers while working effectively in partnership with the council and others.” 

Cllr Shaid Mushtaq, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “I’m proud that Oldham Council and First Choice Homes Oldham are working together to strengthen the support we offer to young people leaving care. Every young person deserves the stability of a safe home and the confidence that help is there when they need it. 

“The Leaving Care Pledge has been shaped with the voices and experiences of our young people at its heart. Their insight will help us deliver real, lasting change for care leavers across Oldham. 

“This partnership ensures that young people are not only supported to secure a home, but are given the tools, guidance and opportunities to thrive and build the skills, independence and aspirations that will shape a positive future. 

“I want every care-experienced young person in Oldham to know that they are valued and supported, and this new partnership strengthens our shared commitment to making sure care experienced young people are not navigating adulthood alone."