Gloucester Young Parents Service: skills for life

An initiative that provides skills for life and advice sessions for young parents looking after small babies and children, held a very special festive session in the run up to Christmas, thanks to members of staff from Elim’s Gloucester Young Parents Service.

Since the launch of Gloucester’s Young Parents Service more than 16 years ago, residents have attended the sessions, organised by the services team of Supported Housing Officers involving a variety of professionals who offer advice and support.

Hydie, Supported Housing Officer said: “The aim is to teach basic life skills in a relaxed and supportive environment. The sessions are specifically for young parents and those attending can influence future session topics dependent on their current needs and interests.

We offer advice and support whilst teaching practical skills from members of our team and external speakers. Each member of our team brings a different skill set to the table, and this has enabled us to better support our residents in the range of topics we are able to cover during these sessions, which has so far included; general skills for life, budgeting, relationships, cooking and accessing work or education.”

The Gloucester Young Parents Support service is primarily for parents aged 16 – 25. Residents will be allocated a Support Worker and develop a personal support plan. Residents are expected to stay for up to 12 months, but some stay for a shorter period depending on their circumstances.

Referrals to the Gloucester Young Parents service are made by Gloucestershire County Council. Gloucestershire County Council’s Housing Advice Team can be contacted on 01452 396396.