Cumberland Council is pleased to announce the launch of a new initiative called “Fresh Start”, aimed at providing essential cleaning products to young people aged 16–24 with lived experience of homelessness transitioning to independent living as they move into a new property.
Recognising the hurdles young people face, the Youth Homeless & Housing team identified a gap in support. To address this, they worked with the Focus Family team to partner with the Geoff Brown Charitable Trust who generously donated £600 worth of cleaning products and ASDA who donated £50. This donation will ensure that young people embarking on their tenancies receive the essential items they need to start their new chapter with confidence and dignity.
The Youth Homeless & Housing team is dedicated to assisting young adults during one of the most challenging periods of their lives. Many of these young people find themselves navigating the complexities of independent living due to strained family relationships or transitioning from supported accommodation to their first home.
Deputy Leader (Non-Statutory) of Cumberland Council and Executive Member for Children, Family Wellbeing and Housing, Cllr Emma Williamson, said: "This initiative reflects our commitment to ensuring that young people with lived experience of homelessness who are transitioning to independent living have the necessary tools and support to build a stable and positive future. A ‘Fresh Start’ not only addresses the practical challenges of starting anew but also sends a powerful message of care and value to our young residents."
Geoff Brown from the Geoff Brown Charitable Trustsaid: “I live by a few simple rules, one of which is that we make a living by what we get and a life with what we give. When I heard about the scheme, I knew I could make a difference.
“Everyone has a hobby and mine is helping people. The reality is no one knows what is going to happen to them in the future. So far, the charity has helped over 540 families in Cumbria and South Scotland and I hope it can continue to help many more.”
This initiative builds on the success of previous collaborations between the Youth Homeless & Housing team, the Focus Family team and generous local donations. The "Hug in a Bag" initiative, funded by Cash for Kids, has already proven to be incredibly valuable to young people in crisis, providing them with basic necessities such as bedding, toiletries, and towels.
In addition, the teams provide "Heat and Eat" packs, which include a microwave, kettle, and toaster. These packs are designed to ensure individuals have access to hot water and food during their initial days in their new homes, further easing the transition to independent living.
The comprehensive support package offered to young people includes not only practical necessities but also flexible support to help empower them with the tools they need to succeed while making them feel valued and cared for.
