West Berkshire charity Young People and Children First unveil third charity house in Thatcham
Hope House, a new home for young people has been unveiled in Thatcham this week, giving vulnerable people from the ages of 16 to 25 a safe place to live.
These homes cater to those who have either been in foster care, a children’s home, a hostel or even homeless.
This is the third house opened by West Berkshire charity Young People and Children First (YPACF), and it looks like a fourth is already in discussions.
The official unveiling of Hope House, on Tuesday (November 9) saw CEO Tracy Underwood thank all involved before handing the reins to landlord Gill Leech who cut the ribbon.
Mrs Underwood said: “We know how appreciated this house is going to be and how loved this house is going to be.
“One of our young people said it’s the loveliest house she has ever lived in.
“They will grow, be happy and love being independent young people.”
As well as offering places to live, YPACF provide physical and emotional support, life skills, and support into education and work.
One resident of Hope House, who must remain anonymous for safety reasons, said: “I was a carer for my Mum. I am a full time college student and I work, I needed to move out but didn’t have the money.
“It’s great I feel so grateful to be given this opportunity, it’s been a privilege to have it, a home life.
“To be getting given this opportunity at my age when it’s not so easy to move out."
She said that her goal is to eventually go to university and that the house has helped with offering time and space for studies.
“It is preparing me for uni," she added. "I was concerned about education, my parent was never able to help me.
“I feel like I would not be getting stuff done but this is great, it makes you feel less alone.
“There’s somebody to look out for you.”
She said: “I want to do a textiles, fashion, or arts course and you need a lot of space to do that.
“I have 16+ hours of study at home.
“It’s better than I thought it was going to be.”
As well as receiving support from landlords Graeme and Gill Leech, Hope House received donations from corporate supporters, local communities, volunteers and the general public, as well as a grant from Nationwide Building Society.
Indoor furnishings were provided by IKEA, a company that has been providing the charity with donations in preparation for Hope House, in what Mrs Underwood called “everything but the kitchen sink”.
She said: “We are so lucky to have Hope House and provide four young people with a home and support.
“This could not have been achieved without the dedication and support of both Mr Graeme and Mrs Gill Leech, who purchased Hope House specifically to rent to the charity.
"We have so many referrals for 16-25 year old care leavers and homeless, and with this third house, we can strive ahead to meet this need.”
More information can be found at www.youngpeopleandchildrenfirst.org
