A new hub providing support for care leavers has opened at the Bird Street Offices in Lichfield. The Hive offers a welcoming space where care leavers from across Staffordshire can meet, access advice and connect with services.
The hub opens every Thursday and provides meals, workshops and a safe environment for young people who have left local authority care. County council staff and young people worked together to clean and decorate the space, with furniture and items supplied through the Care Leavers Recycle Hub — a project that makes essential household items available to care leavers free of charge.
What support is available
Workshops cover topics including independent living, health and fitness, community safety, sexual health and parenting. A regular marketplace will take place featuring items donated from the recycling project.
Young people can also access advice on education, learning and work, including help with writing a CV and information on apprenticeship and employment opportunities. Plans are in place to develop a further room for art sessions and private emotional support.
The hub also includes Baby Bee's, a space where young people can bring their children to play and connect with other young parents.
How the hub was created
Young people played a key role in creating the hub, helping to shape a space that reflects their needs and aspirations.
Nick Lakin, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Staffordshire County Council, said: "It is incredibly important that we continue to support our care leavers as they move into adulthood and begin to live independently. The Hive provides them with a safe, welcoming and accessible space where they can socialise, build confidence and access practical advice when they need it."
Further information about support for care leavers is available on the Staffordshire County Council website.