Affordable accommodation announced for care leavers in Bury

Bury Council has announced plans for new homes to help support care leavers within the borough.

Over the next five years, some 44 flats or houses will be made available to care leavers as part of new housing schemes being delivered on former council-owned sites.

A direct let and local lettings policy will be devised for each scheme, meaning that a select number of homes within each development will be ringfenced for care leavers; and, when a care leaver moves on, the property will be reallocated, forever safeguarding the homes for this use.

This 5-year development is part of the council’s ongoing Children’s Improvement Plan, which aims to create better opportunities and support systems for young people transitioning out of care.

The project will span nine sites across the borough. These homes will provide care leavers with affordable accommodation and support to help them establish independence and stability.

Councillor Clare Cummins, cabinet member for housing services, said: “Affordable housing will allow care leavers to create a safe and stable environment where they can focus on their goals, grow, and contribute to our community. We’re proud to be making this investment in their potential and well-being.”

Councillor Lucy Smith, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “Starting your own home is always challenging and it can be especially difficult for our care leavers. Finding high quality housing to help transition into adulthood is just one of the many improvements we have recently made for our care leavers, but also ensuring they get support for education, employment, and building life skills, giving them the best possible start to independent adult life.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 8 April 2025.