Housing for young people with experience of care
Moving into your own home
If you get aftercare support, talk to your Pathway Coordinator about getting essential things like furniture and kitchen equipment.
You can get advice from the Scottish Throughcare and Aftercare Forum (STAF) about setting up your own home.
Money to help with housing costs
Most people who get money to help with housing costs get it as part of Universal Credit.
There are some people who might get money for their housing costs through Housing Benefit instead of Universal Credit.
Find out more about Housing Benefit on GOV.UK.
Discretionary Housing Payment
You might be able to get a Discretionary Housing Payment from your local council if you:
- rent your home
- get Universal Credit or Housing Benefit
- cannot pay all your housing costs
Find out how to apply for a discretionary Housing Payment.
Council tax
If you left care when you were 16 or over and are under 26, you might not have to pay council tax if you:
- live alone
- live only with other adults who have experience of care
This is called an exemption.
You might get a discount if you live with other adults who do not have experience of care.
You must apply to your local council for an exemption or discount.
Housing problems
Shelter Scotland gives advice and support on housing including:
- homelessness
- finding a home
- renters’ rights
- repairs
- evictions
Get help from your local council
The Scottish Throughcare and Aftercare Forum (STAF) lists local council ‘care leaver offers’. These pages:
- give information about support you might be able to get from your local council
- have contact details for people who can help you get support
If you're unsure which council area you're in, you can search by postcode on GOV.UK.
If you need more help
If you need advice or support you can phone or email Who Cares? Scotland.