SOCIAL services bosses at Southampton City Council have launched an appeal for people who are willing to find a room for young people leaving care.

The Supported Lodgings Scheme is looking for people who can offer youngsters over the age of 16 a room and a safe, secure and stable environment.

The project aims to help young people leaving the care system develop their confidence.

In return, people who provide rooms can earn up to £680 a month, which does not affect their entitlement to benefits or the amount of tax they pay.

Residents who take on a young person receive training, support and advice. Young people in lodgings are also financially supported by the social services team.

Julie Goulding from the Pathways Team said: "Young people lodging in someone's home are there to build the skills needed and to gain the confidence to go it alone.

"The help might include household management, personal safety or budgeting.

"Care leavers often don't have the experience they need to run their own home and having a safe and supportive place to learn these skills enables the young people to leave the care of social services and become independent citizens."

Last year more than 25 care leavers went into supported lodgings and 20 young people have already been supported by the scheme this year.

For more information call Julie Goulding on 023 8091 5350.