St Basils calls for more Supported Lodgings Hosts to help young people at risk of homelessness across Birmingham, Solihull and Worcestershire.
A couple from Birmingham have shared how becoming Supported Lodgings Hosts has changed not only the lives of the young people they’ve welcomed into their home, but their own families too.
Micah and Eleanor, who live in Birmingham, began hosting through homelessness charity St Basils after learning about the scheme and realising how straightforward it could be to offer a spare room and a bit of stability to a young person in need.
“As a family, we’ve always wanted to make the most of what we have to support others,” they said. “When we heard about Supported Lodgings, we realised we could offer a safe home and a bit of stability, something every young person deserves.”
Supported Lodgings provides a bridge between homelessness and independence for young people aged 16–25. Hosts offer a safe place to stay and day-to-day support while St Basils dedicated team provides professional guidance and ongoing help.
Micah and Eleanor say the experience has exceeded their expectations.
“We’ve been blown away by how much we’ve enjoyed it,” they said. “Our guests have been wonderful to live with, and it’s been amazing to see how much difference a bit of stability can make. One of our previous guests is now at university and still keeps in touch, we’re so proud to see how far they’ve come.”
The couple say that being Hosts has also enriched their family life.
“We have two young children, and they’ve loved sharing life with our guests. It’s helped us build a family culture of care and community, something we think every child should see as normal.”
Jonathan Crust Supported lodgings manager for St Basils, said:
“The difference our Hosts make is incredible. They’re giving young people a safe place to grow, to learn, and to believe in their future again. We’re calling on people who have an empty room and a caring heart to consider becoming Hosts. Supported Lodgings doesn’t just transform the lives of young people, it is also fulfilling to Hosts.”
St Basils provides Supported Lodgings within Birmingham, Solihull, Worcestershire and Coventry. Hosts receive full training, 24/7 support and a weekly allowance to all Hosts. No specific experience is required, just patience, empathy and a willingness to make a difference.
Micah and Eleanor hope their story will inspire others to step forward.
“You don’t need to be a superhero, just someone who cares. Supported Lodgings has shown us the power of ordinary people doing something extraordinary.”
National Supported Lodgings Week, taking place from 9 – 16 November, celebrates the incredible Hosts across the UK who open their doors to young people, offering not just a safe place to stay but the stability and support needed to build a brighter future.
To find out more about becoming a Supported Lodgings Host in Worcestershire, visit www.stbasils.org.uk/supportedlodgings
