Housing: Young people in Wiltshire who've been in care to get extra support
Under 25s will get first dibs into social housing and be exempt from council tax
More young people in Wiltshire who've been in care will be given the highest priority to secure their own home.
Young people in the care system aged up to 25 will now get Priority Band 1 status for social housing when they're ready to live independently - previously, priority was given up to the age of 21.
They'll also be exempt from paying council tax and will have access to a rent guarantee scheme.
The changes have been agreed by Wiltshire Council leaders and form part of a wider promise the council is making to young people who've been in care.
In addition to changes to housing, extra support will be offered for things like employment, driving lessons and further education - including "favourable access" to council apprenticeships.
It's hoped the agreed changes will help these young people continue to live in Wiltshire close to local connections.
Cllr Phil Alford, Cabinet Member for Housing said:
“We are proposing a change to the allocation policy so young people who have been in care and are under 25 years can be given Band 1 for housing when they are ready to move into independent accommodation.
"All parents want to ensure their young people can become independent adults while knowing their family is there supporting them. As a corporate parent we want our care experienced young people to have that same reassurance and know we are here to provide the support when it’s needed.”
Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services said:
“We have a strong commitment to help keep our young people safe. This latest decision is a measure to provide a stable footing as they become adults and move to independent living.
"The agreement today gives our young people the opportunity to stay close to friends in Wiltshire to keep that local connection while moving onto the next stage of adult life.”