Supported lodgings young people's guide

What happens when you arrive

When you arrive at a Gateshead supported lodgings service you will be welcomed and offered a drink, as you sit down together with your family, friend or social worker who has accompanied you for an introductory chat.

Then you will be shown around the accommodation, and if you like it, we will set a date for you to move your belongings in.

Once you are settled, we will sit down and go through all the important information that you will need on day one. This is also included in this guide, including fire safety and emergency contact procedures.

Communication

If English is not easy for you to understand, we will make sure that an interpreter is arranged for your welcome to Gateshead supported lodgings service, and for every important meeting and conversation that happens here, or out in the community, such as health appointments or appointments with your solicitor. Some of our staff speak different languages and BSL, and we also use a variety of electronic means to help with interpretation.

Accommodation

You will have your own key which must be kept safe and not given to anyone else. You are responsible for cleaning your own room and bathroom, changing your bedding, and keeping everywhere hygienic and fresh.

Your host will talk to you about any additional areas that are yours to keep clean. In the kitchen we will show you how to use all the other kitchen appliances safely. You are given all the pots and pans you will need and all the cutlery and crockery.

Valuables

We encourage you to be careful with your valuables as we cannot be responsible for them. However we can store small items or money in the safe in our office, which you can sign over to us for safekeeping.

Electrical items

Any items you bring to Gateshead supported lodgings service which are not brand new, will need to be checked by our maintenance staff before you use them.

We provide:

• bed and storage for clothing
• bedding and towel set
• kitchen equipment
• crockery and cutlery
• furniture

There are some items that are not allowed in your home:

• alcohol
• smoking or vaping inside
• chewing gum
• oil burners, candles, incense sticks 
• drugs/illegal substances