If you are considering leaving home or need advice about housing, there are a number of agencies in the South Hams who may be able to help you.
However, good quality housing is hard to find and raising the deposit is even more difficult for young people. You should, therefore, think carefully and seek advice before you make the decision to leave.
Where can I go if I have to leave home?
You may be able to stay with a friend or relative whilst you consider your options. If not, contact the Council's Housing Advice Office or any of the other agencies listed who will be able to give you information and advice.
If I can find a pIace to live, can I get help with the deposit?
A number of organisations and voluntary groups operate Deposit Guarantee Schemes.
Will I be entitled to Housing Benefit?
If you are claiming other benefits or only have a low income you may be entitled to Housing Benefit. However, if you are single and under 25 years of age you may only be able to claim Housing Benefit for a single room rent. For further information contact the Housing Benefit Section.
What type of housing is available?
Most opportunities will be in the private rented sector and you should look in Newspapers and shop windows. The Housing Advice Office also keeps a list of available properties in the private sector.
A number of Housing Associations provide accommodation to rent in the South Hams. You will need to contact the Housing Advice Office and ask for an application form to join the Housing Register.
Where can I get independent advice?
There are now agencies covering most of the towns and surrounding villages who can provide practical advice and information on a wide range of issues affecting young people including housing.
Who are these agencies?
The Children's Society is an organisation available to young people in the South Hams, which offers advocacy support to young people involved with Social Services. There is a similar project based at Palace Avenue in Paignton offering the service to young people in Torbay. further details at:For more information please visit their website:
There are also the Childrens Fund and Take Part projects also based at Palace Avenue in Paignton.
Another service provided to young people in Torbay is Checkpoint; further details on: 01803 200100
The following organisations provide a wide range of services including advice on benefit claims and help with finding accommodation.
Totnes Youth Enquiry Service
King Edwards VI College
The Mansion
Fore Street
Totnes |
Dartmouth Youth Enquiry Service
Ivy Lane Centre
Ivy Lane
Dartmouth. |
Kingsbridge Youth Enquiry Service
Tresillian
112 Fore Street
Kingsbridge |
Ivybridge Youth Advice Centre
1, Highland Villa
Western Road
Ivybridge. |
Your local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) may know of landlords who have accommodation to let. Please click here for information on your nearest CAB.
