Financial support with housing for care leavers

Moving into your own home is a big moment. It can feel exciting, nerve‑wracking, and everything in between, and that’s completely normal. We are here to walk alongside you and help things feel more manageable. 

Here’s how we can support you: 

• We’ll help you understand the financial commitments you will have, sort out your finances e.g. help you set up direct payments to cover your bills, including checking what benefits you might be able to get and supporting you with applications so you don’t have to figure it out on your own
• If paying a rent deposit feels like a worry, we may be able to help through a rent deposit scheme to make getting your own place more achievable
• You may be able to get a Leaving Care Grant also referred to as a setting up home allowance, of up to £3,000 to help you set up your home with essentials like a bed, furniture, and a washing machine etc
• We’ll support you around moving day and afterwards, with practical help and guidance to help you set things up and settle in
• If things like bills, money, or tenancy agreements feel confusing, we’ll explain them clearly and talk things through with you so you feel more confident
• We’ll cover your TV licence or your Wi-Fi for your first year, so that’s one less thing to think about 
• If you need help with bigger items, we can support you to apply for local schemes that help with things like white goods 
• When it’s time to move, we can help you arrange a van to make the day a bit easier and less stressful

“The setting up home grant was really useful and when I had problems with flooding in my home the council helped me.”

- Anya, Care Leaver

Council tax discount for care leavers 

If you’re a care leaver, you will be exempt of paying council tax if you meet specific criteria this will be available to you no matter where you live. This can make a real difference.  

You may be able to apply if: 

Discount percentage

If you think this might apply to you, just talk to your Personal Advisor. They’re there to listen, help you understand your options, and support you with applying.