New home set to shape young lives in Middlesbrough

A former detached house in the town centre has been converted into 12 self-contained flats that will focus on helping 16- to 18-year-olds facing serious challenges and issues including homelessness.

And this week Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke – who grew up within the care system – visited the new service to meet staff and find out more about the support on offer.

The Ofsted-registered facility had been empty for seven years until a partnership was formed between housing association Home Group and Middlesbrough Council.

The service will provide much needed support for young people in the town who are facing significant challenges in their lives.

As well as this new facility, Home Group, also provides two other similar services on Teesside.

Nusheen Hussain, executive director of customers and communities at Home Group, said: “Our teams have a wealth of experience in supporting young people to get the best from life.

“We are delighted to be able to extend our offer further in Middlesbrough and help those young people who have had a difficult and challenging time of it to fulfil their potential.”

Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “We are fully committed to giving all our young people the best possible start in life.

“By giving this fantastic building a new lease of life, Home Group and Middlesbrough Council are providing a much needed springboard for young people at a time when they need it most.

“It’s great to see a building like this realise its potential, and I know will go on to change a great many lives for the better.”