Young care leavers project celebrates first year

A campaign helping young people leaving care to get skills and gain independence has helped about more than 20 people since it was launched a year ago.

Peterborough City Council said the House Project - part of a national scheme- helped those aged 16-18 to get more in control of their futures as they look to start careers and move into their own homes.

Since January 2025, two cohorts of young people have benefited from the project, with six youngsters already having moved into permanent homes.

Katy Cole, cabinet member for children's services, said the House Project was having a "positive effect".

"This is a unique project which is changing young people's lives and their prospects for the better," Cole said.

The first cohort of 12 people graduated in August, taking part in 33 skill-learning sessions. The second cohort of 10 people started in September 2025 and they were expected to graduate in April 2026.

While at the House Project - based at Chauffeurs Cottage in the city centre - care leavers learn about a range of subjects including finances, energy efficiency, drugs and alcohol, mental health, looking after a home (cleaning and washing), general health and first aid, cooking and budgeting.

Through regular meet-ups and one-to-one sessions, they get vital advice and skills in areas such as employment, job seeking, CV writing and setting up business models.

They are also guided on developing positive relationships with neighbours and people in the community.

Cole said: "This is also essential to reducing homelessness among care leavers as experience shows that those care leavers who are equipped with necessary life skills and ongoing support have better long-term outcomes."

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