Support Step by step

Karen Neville

Could you be a local hero for a young person in Woodley or Twyford? 

As Woodley gets ready for its much-loved Community Carnival and neighbours gear up for summer fêtes and garden trail season, there’s something else happening across our towns and villages, a quiet crisis that rarely makes the headlines. More and more young people in our area are struggling to find somewhere safe and stable to live. 

Youth charity Step by Step is appealing to local residents to become Supported Lodgings hosts. It’s a simple but life-changing idea: offer a young person aged 16 to 21 a spare room, a bit of stability, and the encouragement they need to build an independent future. Hosts aren’t expected to be parents, just consistent and caring people who can provide guidance and a safe place to stay. 

Isabel, a host from Reading, shared: “It’s made my daughter and me more grounded and grateful for what we have. Hosting has opened our eyes – and our hearts.” 

Step by Step offers full training and ongoing support so hosts are never alone. There’s also financial support, to make sure hosting works for you and your household. 

This is an opportunity for people, especially those with a spare room and a strong sense of community, to be part of something special. If you’re someone who enjoys giving back, perhaps through volunteering or just being a good neighbour, this could be your next step. 

If you have a spare room you could be the reason a young person finds safety, support, and hope for the future. Take the first step today.