 |
 |
Basingstoke Residents Open Their Homes to Support Young People
Basingstoke has always been a community that looks out for its own, and now local residents are stepping up to tackle youth homelessness.
With housing pressures growing, more people are offering spare rooms through Supported Lodgings, a scheme run by youth charity Step by Step. It matches young people aged 16-21 with hosts who can offer a stable place to live while they gain independence. It’s not about parenting—it’s about providing a supportive home. Each host and young person are carefully matched to ensure the best fit. Many in Supported Lodgings are care leavers, seeking stability as they transition to adulthood.
Step by Step also provides full support through dedicated Stepworkers, who guide both hosts and young people with practical advice and emotional support.
For Alice, a host, the experience has been deeply rewarding:
“I had space in my home, and I missed the energy of a busy house. Becoming a host was one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. It’s not about being a parent—it’s about offering guidance, stability, and a place to call home.”
Young people like Kaitlin§, 18, know just how much this support matters:
“Before this, I had nowhere to go. My host gave me a place to stay and the encouragement I needed to do my A levels and believe in myself again”
With youth homelessness rising, more hosts are needed in Basingstoke and surrounding areas. The scheme provides training, support, and an allowance, making it accessible to many.
For those who can’t host, community donations fund vital services like counselling and life skills training.
To learn more, visit www.stepbystep.org.uk/bas-heroes
By opening their doors, Basingstoke residents are proving that small actions create life-changing impact.
§ name changed
March 2025