Two and a half years ago we opened our first halfway house for boys. We had observed that starting vocational training and finding independent accommodation was a big step for young people who were moving on from one of our care homes. Sometimes landlords weren't respectful to young people renting rooms. And although some vocational training centres provided accommodation, it was often dormitory style which carried its own risks.

Following the amazing success for the boys, we realised we needed to do something for our girls too. Having a halfway house means girls who we have been supporting for many years have a safe place to stay. This is where they can learn how to cook, clean, budget and take care of themselves, whilst accessing further educational/vocational courses. This secure environment means they can develop the skills they need to really make a better future for themselves. Each home has a part-time member of staff who drops in to offer support as and when it is needed, whether that be emotional support or practical help like planning shopping lists.

Because the halfway home for girls was so desperately needed, we opened it in faith using our general funds. But now we really need to secure funding for the year to come to keep it running.

In addition, we want to open another halfway house in Hetauda. We want to offer vocational training courses to girls and young women who have benefited from our educational bursaries in the past (meaning that they have come from particularly disadvantaged backgrounds). Some of the training courses, such as administration, hotel management or beautician training are only available in town, and the young women live too far away to travel in every day. A halfway house would give them a safe environment to live in whilst they gain the skills needed to secure themselves an independent future.

We need to raise £15,000 to run both of these halfway houses for the coming year. Up to sixteen young women will benefit each year, giving them a huge boost as they step into adulthood. The funds will cover rent, food, clothing and staff support. Thank you so much.