A woman who has opened both her home and her heart to support young people is inspiring others to do the same.
At just 29, Sarah Weatherstone has been providing a safe and nurturing environment for vulnerable young people for the past two years. She is one of the youngest Supported Lodgings providers for Durham County Council.
Sarah, who has supported seven young people at her Stanley home so far, said:
“I surprised myself in having three young people placed with me at the same time, because I think I’d only ever set out to have one.
“Every young person is so different, and the relationships I’ve had with each of them in the time I’ve been a Supported Lodgings provider have been so different. Some of them want a maternal figure, some of them want a best friend, some of them want you to be a big sister. Knowing what each person wants and needs and adapting my approach to that is so important.”
Having previously volunteered with the cadets, Sarah, who is a former police officer, has always been passionate about making a difference in young people’s lives. As a Supported Lodgings provider, she can continue to work full time, while helping young people and providing them with opportunities.
Supported Lodgings providers offer a safe and caring home to 16 to 25-year-olds who have left care or are at risk of becoming homeless. As well as providing a safe place to live, Supported Lodgings providers encourage and help young people to become independent by sharing life skills. They also lend a listening ear and offer friendship and advice.
Eighteen-year-old Ellie has been living with Sarah for a year and a half, and she appreciates the unique support she receives and the special bond they have.
Ellie said:
“If I’m quiet or my room is messy, Sarah can tell there’s something up.
“I’m so open with Sarah, I could speak to her about anything. I don’t feel like I’ve got to keep stuff in anymore. When I used to do that, it got to a point where I felt like I was going to explode. But I can tell Sarah stuff now.”
As well as emotional support, Ellie has learned practical skills while living with Sarah, including cooking, cleaning, and managing her money.
“I used to say – Sarah, how do you cook pasta?” said Ellie.
“But now I’ve learned to cook and clean. I have more confidence in myself. I’m able to speak with other people, whereas at the start I just didn’t want to speak to anyone. I’m much more open now.”
Sarah has also noticed big changes in Ellie over the time she’s known her:
“When people first come in, and they’ve been through trauma, it can be very much one-word conversations,” she said.
“But once they’ve been here a while, they can talk for a very long time.”
Although she forms strong bonds with the young people she provides for, Sarah feels proudest when they are ready to move on.
“I supported my second young person when she got her first house and helped decorate it. Just seeing the progress they’ve made and that they’re ready to move on means I’ve done my job well.”
Cllr Ted Henderson, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said:
“Supported Lodgings is all about providing a safe and supportive environment for vulnerable young people to make the transition into adulthood, helping them develop the skills and confidence they need to live independently.
“It’s wonderful to hear about the positive impact Supported Lodgings is having on Sarah and Ellie’s lives. I hope this inspires others to consider turning their home into a stepping stone for a young person in need.”
County Durham residents with a spare room, who would like to support a vulnerable young person, are encouraged to apply to become a Supported Lodgings provider.
Providers can be working, retired or unemployed; single or in a relationship; and of any sexual orientation. They must be 21 or over but there is no upper age limit so long as they are fit and healthy.
Supported Lodgings providers must be able to provide the young person with their own key, bedroom and access to a bathroom, kitchen and laundry facilities.
In return, providers receive a payment for the accommodation and support they provide. They also receive professional training and development, as well as support from a dedicated social worker.
To find out more, visit www.durham.gov.uk/supportedlodgings.
