Foster for East Midlands Councils in partnership with Host the Future is throwing the spotlight on a specialised area of fostering during a new national awareness campaign. National Supported Lodgings Week, which runs from 9 to 16 November 2025, highlights a vital but often under-recognised form of support for young people aged 16 and over who are unable to live with their birth families. In a supported lodging arrangement, a young person lives in the home of a host, who offers not only a safe place to stay but also practical guidance, emotional encouragement, and the steady presence of a trusted adult.

Supported lodgings play a crucial role in helping young people move towards independence. They are especially important for those leaving care, unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, or young people at risk of homelessness. Despite its life-changing impact, many people remain unaware of this valuable service, which makes it harder to find new hosts and can limit opportunities for young people who would benefit from it.

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Lead Cabinet Member for Foster for East Midlands, said:

Many people have never heard of supported lodgings but it can be life-changing. Hosts don’t need to be experts; they just need to care and be willing to offer a bit of stability and guidance. We want more people across the East Midlands to know they could make a real difference in a young person’s life.

Throughout November Foster for East Midlands Councils will share real stories, videos, and insights from both young people and hosts, highlighting how supported lodgings can transform lives and communities.

If you have a spare room and a desire to help a young person build a brighter future, you could become a supported lodgings host. Hosts receive full training, ongoing support, and financial allowances.

To learn more about becoming a host and how you can get involved visit hostthefuture.net or contact Foster for East Midlands Councils directly by calling 03033 132 950, email hello@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk.

Find out more about different types of fostering on the Types of fostering website.

Watch the animated film to provide more information on Supported Lodging.