Dozens of homes at nine new housing developments to be used to give care leavers to give ‘best possible start’ to adulthood

Wednesday, 9 April 2025 13:55

By George Lythgoe, Local Democracy Reporter

Properties at several new housing schemes are to be made available to care leavers.

Bury Council said that over the next five years, 44 houses and flats will be used at new schemes being delivered on former council-owned sites.

A direct let and local lettings policy will be devised for each project, meaning that a select number of homes within each development will be ring-fenced
for care leavers.

When a care leaver moves on the property will be reallocated, which the council said would forever safeguard the homes for this use.

The five-year project is part of the council’s ongoing children’s improvement plan, which aims to create better opportunities and support systems
for young people transitioning out of care.

The project will span nine sites across the borough. The authority said homes will provide care leavers with affordable accommodation and support to help them establish independence and stability.

Coun Clare Cummins, cabinet member for housing services, said: “Affordable housing will allow care leavers to create a safe and stable environment where they can focus on their goals, grow, and contribute to our community.

“We’re proud to be making this investment in their potential and well-being.”

Coun Lucy Smith, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “Starting your own home is always challenging and it can be especially difficult
for our care leavers.

“Finding high quality housing to help transition into adulthood is just one of the many improvements we have recently made for our care leavers, but also ensuring they get support for education, employment, and building life skills, giving them the best possible start to independent adult life.”