Supported carers assist young people between the ages of 16 and 21 who have been in residential or foster care and who, for a variety of reasons, will not be returning home to the care of their families. Sometimes they are asked to support a young mother and her baby.

Supported carers offer a home to young people at a time of change in their lives.

This period often comes at a crucial stage in their development – and at a time when their future is unsettled.

It’s a time that’s a halfway stage, when young people need to learn to develop practical skills and a sense of responsibility to equip them for moving into a home of their own.

Being a supported carer can be a challenging and demanding task. Young people placed may have experienced a high level of disruption in their lives and/or possible trauma/loss. However supported carers can assist young people to improve their confidence, skills and self-esteem by providing a safe and secure home base whilst at the same time, encouraging young people to develop independent living skills.

Support for supported carers

We have experienced ‘throughcare’ workers who will help young people to move on to independence in the community.

‘Throughcare’ workers will provide support and advice to the young person and to the carers.

You will have your own link social worker to support your family and a carers support group meets monthly to provide both support and training. You will have access to a wide range of training courses to support you in your task.

As a supported carer, you will be provided with any equipment that you might need to accommodate a young person in your home.

We pay a weekly allowance. The young person will have their own income and will be expected to contribute to household costs as part of their preparation for independent living.

People who can apply

You don’t need any special qualifications or experience. What you do need is a spare bedroom in your home, an interest in young people and a willingness to understand their needs. Couples or single people can apply.

All applicants will be expected to undergo a full assessment before they are considered for approval as carers for East Renfrewshire Council.