'I wouldn't have a job or house without this'

NEW HUB OFFERS VITAL SUPPORT FOR YOUNG CARE LEAVERS

- By GARETH LIGHTFOOT

Thomas Courtney has his hair cut by Mohammed Niromande, owner of Ragworth Barber Shop, at the No Limits Hub in Stockton

A NEW hub for young people who have left care has been hailed as a vital “anchor” for support, training and jobs.

The No Limits Hub is described as a one-stop shop for care leavers where they can socialise, make friends and drop in for support, advice and guidance.

They can meet social workers or personal advisors and get help and information on jobs, training, housing, benefits, welfare, therapeutic services, health and wellbeing.

It also hosts workshops, activities and tutoring, with rooms for confidential meetings including a sensory area for relaxation, pool and ping-pong tables, free haircuts and nail treatments, winter warm boxes, citizens' advice, and an 'achievement tree' to celebrate proud moments.

The Ramsgate facility has been running for months in Stockton town centre, but was formally opened on Tuesday, November 4 during National Care Leavers' Month, which celebrates care leavers' achievements and raises awareness of the challenges they face.

Getting his hair cut was 18-year-old council market coordinator Thomas Courtney, who is glad of the hub's help.

“It's a nice place to come, it gets me out of the house,” he said. “If it wasn’t for this I wouldn’t have found a house and I wouldn't have found a job.”