A NEW project has been launched to help support young people leaving care in Brentford and the rest of Hounslow Borough, as they take their first steps to independence.

Young men and women who have left care will be allocated a dedicated housing officer who will help them find the right place to live, based on their needs.

They will also be supported with learning new skills, such as budgeting and paying bills, in order to help them get ready for their own tenancy.

The young people will also be assisted with further education and employment.

Hounslow Council will provide the majority of homes but it will also work with other providers too.

Cllr Lily Bath, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Housing and Social Inclusion, said: "We know that sustaining tenancies can be particularly challenging for young people who have been in care.

"For young people and care leavers, striking out into the world on their own for the first time can be exciting yet daunting.

"All parents want to help their children as they take their first steps towards living independently; and we are no different."

Cllr Tom Bruce, Cabinet Member for Education and Children's Services, said: "We want to be there to support our young people leaving care as they become adults with all the opportunities and new responsibilities that involves.

"It will be reassuring for them to learn skills like budgeting and maintaining a home before living on their own.

"Many care leavers will have very limited finances to afford their bills and living costs.

"This initiative will really help our young people keep a secure, permanent home."