Member news: Jeremy Corbyn has 'a pizza the action' with Barnardo's care leaver Tyrone

Jeremy Corbyn took time out from his party’s conference to start making pizzas with a care leaver who is being supported by Barnardo’s.

As the pair chopped their vegetables, the Labour leader listened as care leaver Tyrone explained how the UK’s largest children’s charity is helping him get his life on track.

The 20-year-old talked about how he used to be in foster care and introduced Corbyn to Matt and Jude, his lodging hosts in the Barnardo’s supported lodging service.

With their help he is learning to live more independently by learning essential life skills and has secured a weekend job in a café.

Tyrone said:

"It's been great meeting Jeremy Corbyn. It's good to know that someone who has such influence cares."

The Barnardo's supported lodging providers have given me so much and allowed me to focus on my future.

Living with Jude and Matt feels like home now. I feel very happy here."

Barnardo's Chief Executive Javed Khan accompanied the party's leader on the visit and explained how the charity supports more than 272,000 children, young people, parents and carers like Tyrone to have fulfilling lives.

Javed Khan said:

"I am delighted Jeremy Corbyn was able to find time in his busy conference schedule to hear how Barnardo’s supports the UK’s most vulnerable children and young people.

We strive to transform their lives so they can lead positive futures and I think this really hit home for the Labour leader when he spoke to Tyrone, who is an inspirational young man."

Young people leaving care have often had difficult and troubled starts in life, so it’s vital they receive the support they so desperately need to enable them to achieve their dreams."

The Brighton and Hove Supported Lodgings service was started in 2015 with the aim of supporting young people who may be homeless or leaving the care system.  Together with Barnardo’s, hosts offer a room in their home to help each vulnerable young person make a smooth transition into independent living.  

Barnardo’s are looking for individuals or families to open their doors and provide safe and secure homes for 16 to 21 year-olds.  Hosts receive round-the-clock assistance, a dedicated key worker, a comprehensive training programme and an allowance of £150 per week.  

Hosts come from a variety of backgrounds.  Some work full-time, some work part-time and some are retired. All have spare time to offer emotional care and practical advice to help a young person build their confidence.  

For more information about becoming a Supported Lodgings host, call 01273 412010 or email [email protected]

Source:
http://www.barnardos.org.uk

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