If we are making decisions that affect other people, we really need to understand their experiences and the impact of those decisions!

On Wednesday 24 July, a group of young people in supported lodgings, who are moving towards independent living, will be sharing their experiences first-hand. Step by Step are hosting the event in Aldershot, and will be welcoming representatives from children’s services and care organisations, along with the press, to hear the challenges of moving out when you leave supported lodgings, as well as the recommendations that young people want to put forward to improve the support and policies that shape this transition.

Looked after young people have described leaving care as being the cliff edge, identifying practical and emotional challenges moving into independent living. Practical challenges include cooking, laundry, budgeting and understanding a tenancy agreement, and emotional challenges include feeling isolated, lonely, and fear around losing a tenancy. However, feelings of personal control and being heard have been shown to build resilience, and involving experts by experience in decision-making processes can make those decisions meet the needs of those they affect.

Youth voice describes the inclusion of young people in decision-making processes by providing opportunities for them to share their experiences, views and ideas. A collaboration between Step by Step’s Speak Out (youth voice) group and the Centre for Homelessness Research and Practice, is gathering stories through spoken word, written text, and a photo exhibition which will be presented in a workshop with some practical activities to understand young people’s experiences. Decisions are often made with very little input from the young people who are on the receiving end, and this is an opportunity to invite them to contribute based on their expert experience.

If you would like more information, please get in touch with Becky Ward: hello@youthrive.life or Alex Barber alex.barber@stepbystep.org.uk. The event will run from 10.30am-12.30pm with lunch provided.