When you feel you are ready to move into your own accommodation we can help support you in completing a housing form with the council. The Accommodation Officer will go through the process with you as it may vary in different areas with different councils.
There are also supported housing options around the area and we can help you look into these options and take you for a look around. We will then refer you if this is the right option for you and support you at any interviews.
Another route is to privately rent accommodation through private landlords. This route can be more expensive and would usually be identified to those that are working and could afford a higher rent. They usually ask for a bond - in case there is any damage - and at least one month’s rent in advance of you moving into the property.
Some landlords may also charge an ‘Administration fee’ this could be in the excess of £100 before you pay your deposit and up-front rent. Administration fees are often used to do a credit check - this could be to see if you are a suitable tenant and if you owe any money to other landlords or housing providers. Should you fail the check you will lose the administration fee.
Landlords may ask for a Guarantor – this is someone who would be willing to guarantee they will pay any damages or unpaid rent if these arise. They may ask that this be someone who owns their own property. The Pathway Team cannot act as a guarantor.
There may be times when you and your worker disagree on your readiness for moving into independence – if this happens please do listen to their worries and we would encourage you to meet with our Accommodation Officers to see what extra support can be provided to help you be more ready. Living alone can be hard and we would always want this to happen at the right time for you.