One of those residents is 17-year-old Elliot Lock. He has been living at the Foyer for just five weeks. “I was very happy to get a place at the Foyer as my living situation was really unhealthy. I’ve only been here a few weeks but I’m already feeling better about myself,” he said.
“I think the flats are pretty cool – I’ve got my own space and can make my own decisions but my support worker is helpful and I've got a support plan which I agreed to.”
Elliot has immersed himself in Foyer life, meeting other residents and playing football in the Homeless World Cup. His ambition of becoming a successful accountant is still on track thanks to Elliot’s determination and the backing of staff at the Foyer.
He said: “I am studying for an NVQ Level 3 in AAT – the Fast-track Association of Accounting Technicians. My goal is to go to university and living at the Foyer will give me the best possible chance.”
The Foyer Accreditation Panel’s report said Weston Foyer has “exceptional quality of the accommodation provided and the communal resources available to young people. There is a dedicated and highly skilled, experienced staff team, a robust support and personal development planning process and a wealth of tools to deliver life skills development which is tailor made to each individual."
Foyer manager Nova Merridale said: “We are delighted with this glowing report from the Foyer Federation - it confirms that the service we provide is high quality and makes a real difference to the lives of our residents. The Foyer evolves on almost a daily basis as new ideas are put into practice and the needs of the residents continue to change, reflecting changes in legislation, the local community and society in general.”
As part of the accreditation, a two-day resident conference was held where the young people living at the Foyer had the opportunity to discuss staff performances and resident services. Several residents were interviewed during the inspection and all spoke positively about their home and support environment.
25 January 2007