Hounslow Council's Cabinet has approved the investment of £6.15m to develop new suitable homes for care leavers. 

The decision comes as the Council looks to celebrate Care Leaver's Week (25 October to 1 November).

The council's conducted a review of its property portfolio and identified five small sites to deliver safe and secure homes for residents most in need.

Since April this year, the council has placed 44 care leavers in permanent one-bedroom social rent homes to support their transition into adulthood and last month the full borough council voted unanimously to recognise being care experienced as a locally protected characteristic.

Providing homes for care leavers is a key part of the council's ambitious housebuilding programme.

It aims to address the fact that many care leavers currently live in placements that no longer meet their need or are unable to move on because of a lack of suitable alternative accommodation and support that can meet their individual needs.

Councillor Tom Bruce, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Development said: "Hounslow is committed to protecting our most vulnerable residents and with care leavers we have an even greater responsibility as their corporate parent to support their transition into adulthood and long-term independence. 

"Providing suitable and safe places to live, in a welcoming community is an integral part of enhancing our offer for care leavers. We know that a secure home helps them succeed in other areas of their life, such as education and employment or relationships.  

"With Care Leavers Week just around the corner, I hope this sends a clear message that every care experienced young person will be provided with the tools to thrive in Hounslow and achieve their full potential.    

"All new developments in the borough are identified to provide greater affordable housing options for residents, while creating a thriving, greener, safer and healthier place to live, play, work and study for the whole community." 

Care Leavers are young people who have recently left care. They continue to receive support from Children's Services as young adults, at least until their 21st birthday and in some cases beyond.

For more information read the Cabinet reports in full here. 

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