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We have a number of services run specifically for young people. At any one time we can provide accommodation for 20 young people in the Canterbury area and 9 in Tonbridge. Young people come to us from a variety of circumstances. Through our support and the provision of safe accommodation, we aim to help young people regain their confidence and trust and develop a sense of responsibility and citizenship.
Young Person’s Direct Access Hostel
This is an emergency direct access hostel located on Whitstable Road, Canterbury. More 
Young Person’s Short-Term Accommodation
We have two short-term young person’s accommodation projects. New Town Street in Canterbury for people aged 16-21 and New Wharf in Tonbridge for 16-24 year olds. More
To make a referral to any of these services visit the online referrals page…
Young Person’s Direct Access Hostel
This is an emergency direct access hostel for young people between the ages of 16 and 21. There are nine self-contained flats for both male and female residents. The hostel is staffed 24 hours a day providing support whenever it is needed. Individual needs are assessed and referrals made to appropriate specialist agencies and other housing providers. Residents of the main house are issued with an initial licence of 12 weeks that can be extended and the two people sharing the flat are given a six month tenancy.
The project exists to support homeless young people and give them the stability they need in a safe environment. Through regular quality keyworking, the team supports them to positively address the issues that have made them homeless. Advice and assistance is given to them on areas such as housing benefits, budgeting, training and employment, health, appointments, social skills, self-esteem and confidence.
The garden at the hostel provides an accessible and usable outdoor space for the residents. There is also a communal area providing space for a variety of activities such as, life skills, encouraging them to access education or training opportunities, health promotion exploring issues such as drugs, alcohol, sex and diet, basic literacy and numeracy, as well as recreational cultural and educational excursions.
We aim to ensure that residents can find appropriate move-on accommodation and access other appropriate services for continued success. Residents will often move-on within Porchlight’s other accommodation projects.
Young Person’s Short-Term Accommodation
New Town Street, Canterbury
New Town Street is a hostel accommodating eight young people between the ages of 16 and 21. The project provides medium support, with staff at the project Monday to Friday 9 -5pm. However, residents can access staff support at other times if necessary.
The hostel provides a safe, stable environment in which the young people can move forward in their lives. They can stay at the project up to two years, however many move-on before then. All residents are supported in pursuing meaningful activities, such as attending college, accessing training or seeking employment. Tenants are encouraged to attend regular house meetings to give their views and participate in the smooth running of the house.
Residents have access to a garden and a newly refurbished life skills room. There are two service user involvement workers based at the hostel to encourage the young residents to participate in a variety of activities that will build their confidence, skills and self esteem.
New Wharf, Tonbridge
New Wharf is a purpose-built supported accommodation project in Tonbridge. The building is made up of 9 self-contained flats. Each flat is fully furnished with its own kitchen and bathroom.
The project provides a safe and supportive environment for 16- 24 year olds. It is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Referrals are accepted for both males and females. Residents can stay for up to two years.
This specialist service works with residents to develop a person-centred support plan that promotes independence and champions engagement and inclusion within the wider community.
Young Person’s Move-on Accommodation
There is a three bedroom move-on house near to the New Town Street hostel which is supported by the New Town Street staff team. This house acts as a stepping stone from hostel life to living on your own. Staff provide regular support to residents, with weekly meetings and extra help at times if needed.
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