Care Leavers - Accommodation and finance

Setting up Home Allowance

How will I furnish my flat?

If you are a care leaver moving into your own home, you may be able to access money to help you buy the things you need from the setting up home allowance.

How much?

Up to £3000 depending on your needs.

What is the allowance used for?

  • essential items are the priority and should be purchased first - this includes:
    • bed
    • mattress
    • cooker
    • a fridge
    • kitchen equipment
  • other items which are necessary to furnish your home- example include:
    • sofa
    • table
    • wardrobe
    • television

The allowance cannot be used:

  • for food
  • for rent
  • to pay debts
  • to buy non-essential technology such as a games console

You can access the allowance once you have:

  • identified your property, and
  • signed your tenancy agreement

Please speak to your Social Worker or Personal Advisor for more information about how this allowance is paid.

What if I don't pay my bills?

It is really important that you keep up with your:

  • rent payments
  • water charges/surcharges or services charges

Failure to do so will lead to eviction.

You can get help to manage all of these from your personal advisor and if you received your flat through the housing panel. You can get additional support from your housing officer.

We will work closely with you to:

  • problem solve
  • help you to manage
  • make sure you have information to make the right decisions.

However, we do rely on you to tell us and let us know when you are struggling or facing a problem.

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