A YOUNG man who spent time in Supported Lodgings last year is celebrating getting a place at university.

He has said he would never have made it without the support of his carer, Linda Ostrowska.
 

Supported Lodgings carers take care leavers, aged between 16 and 21, into their own home and provide a bed, meals and support until he or she is ready to live independently in a place of their own.
 

The young man went to live with Linda in February last year, when he was 17.

He had started A Levels and dropped out. When he went to live with Linda he wasn’t in work or training.

With Linda’s help, he got a place on a business course at Gloucestershire College, which he really enjoyed.
 

Linda, 56, from Gloucester said: “He had some issues to get over, but he managed to overcome them. He did extremely well on his course and was offered places at two universities.”
 

Following his time with Linda, he felt ready to move into supported housing when he turned 18.

He finished his course in July this year and got the grades he needed to go to university.

Although he had offers of a place at universities further afield, he opted to stay at the University of Gloucestershire to do an HND, so he could be close to his brother, who has autism.
 

Linda said: “His long-term aim is to be a business teacher. He has acknowledged that he wouldn’t be where he was without my support and the support of my neighbour, who is a business teacher.
 

“He’s done so well. He’s worked through his problems and got to where he wants to be.”
 

Cllr Paul McLain, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “Supported Lodgings carers like Linda are making a difference to young adults every day and changing their lives for the better. Thanks to Linda’s help, the young man has straightened things out and is really set to achieve.”
 

The average age for leaving home is 24, but children in care sometimes leave their home much earlier.

Many young people in care remain with their carers after the age of 16, but some opt for more independent living.

Some young people also come into the care system at the age of 16 and Supported Lodgings suits their needs better.
 

Young people living in Supported Lodgings must be either in employment or training or be looking for work.

The length of time a young person spends with a Supported Lodgings carer depends on their individual needs and abilities.
 

If you feel you’ve got what it takes to be a Supported Lodgings carer, please call the Fostering Recruitment Team on 01242 532654 or visit www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/fostering