Young People's Service welcomes local councillors

A service providing accommodation and support for young people in Dorchester has welcomed local councillors to see first-hand the difference it makes.

Councillor Stella Jones and Councillor Les Fry were invited to Dorchester Young People’s Service by Stonewater, who run the service, as part of the National Housing Federation’s Starts at Home campaign, highlighting the importance of having a safe and secure place to call home.

The Young People’s Service in Fordington, Dorchester, provides furnished accommodation for those aged from 18 to 25, as well as regular support and access to training and employment opportunities, enabling customers to work towards an independent and stable future.

The councillors visit allowed them to see the accommodation and talk to staff and customers about the impact that this vital service has on local young people’s lives.

Councillor Stella Jones, who serves both Dorchester Town Council and Dorset Council, and was three times Dorchester Mayor, said of the visit: "Having spent many years supporting children's and young persons’ organisations, it was wonderful to have the chance to see this valuable service provided by Stonewater first hand. Having a safe and secure place to call home is the stepping stone for work, training and so much more."

Councillor Les Fry represents Dorchester West and spent 28 years as a Police officer with almost ten years as Police Inspector for Dorchester & Sherborne. He added: "I must applaud the work being done at this local provision for young people, not just in providing vital accommodation, but also the support provided alongside it by the wonderful staff."

The Dorchester Young People’s Service provides nine private rooms alongside shared facilities including a kitchen, lounge, laundry room and gym. Customers benefit from a key worker who supports them to plan and work towards their goals for the future.

Stonewater"s Darlene Ford, Senior Project Co-ordinator commented on the visit: "It’s been a pleasure to show our local councillors, who do so much for our local community, around the Young People’s Service. Promoting our supported housing schemes for the Starts at Home campaign is a great opportunity to raise awareness of the services we provide, and we’re grateful to Councillor Fry and Councillor Jones for their support."

Stonewater provides a number of foyers for young people aged 16 to 25 across the country, providing accommodation, training and employment support to enable the move to permanent accommodation, as well as supported living services for survivors of domestic abuse, and those with learning or physical disabilities and mental health needs.