Project Launch in Manchester & Trafford

Posted 16th October 2022

PRESS RELEASE FROM TRAFFORD COUNCIL

A new scheme has been launched in Trafford to enable young care leavers to make their first home and develop the skills they need to live independently.

‘The House Project’ is a nationwide initiative that brings together groups of young care leavers, teaches them life skills from property maintenance to cooking and financial management and provides them with a property to renovate – which then becomes their home.

As well as teaching practical skills, the House Project also enables care-experienced young people to create a community, providing emotional support and helping them to build resilience.

Trafford and Manchester City Councils will be running the scheme as a joint project and have held launch events where young people were joined by professionals from commissioning, housing, leaving care and social work to learn how the House Project can offer support to gain practical skills, make new friends and lead to having a stable and secure place to live.

Cllr Catherine Hynes, Trafford’s Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Children’s Services said:

“This is such an exciting project which has made a huge difference to care leavers in other parts of the UK so I’m delighted that we now have our own scheme here in Trafford.

“For young people leaving care, finding suitable housing as they make their own way in the world can be a huge challenge. The House Project addresses this in a practical way and will give the young care leavers taking part important skills and experience that will stay with them for life.

“Hearing from young people who have already benefited from similar initiatives elsewhere was a real inspiration - I can’t wait to see the progress of the Trafford House Project.”

Mark Warr, CEO Of the National House Project added:

“There is a lot of good work going on with care leavers across Greater Manchester and we are delighted to be working with Trafford to support young people to leave care well.”

For more information about the House Project in Trafford and Manchester please contact rachelanne.brooks@manchester.gov.uk

Full press release