JANE Bullock's article in the BEN on Thursday, November 7, highlights the plight of young people living "rough" in Bolton.
This is certainly unacceptable and we at Bolton Quaker Meeting have been glad to support the work of Bolton Bond Board since its inception in 1993.
The Bond Board offers a rent deposit scheme to help single young people by offering a promissory bond to cover the advance deposit required on private accommodation. This allows a claimant to take immediate tenancy which secures the essential address status necessary in order to apply for benefits, other services and work.
The Bond Board, funded partly by a grant from the Local Authority and partly by voluntary donation, also provides ongoing advice and practical help through a team of voluntary support workers.
Private landlords are attracted to the scheme because of assurance on rent deposits and accept that checks are kept on property standards.
During the past year, 350 young people have been assisted by the Bond Board, a number of whom have subsequently entered further education, obtained jobs or voluntary work as a result of a more stable and secure lifestyle.
As the Bolton Bond Board was not referred to by those interviewed in Jane Bullock's article, we feel it is vital that such a facility should be widely publicised and used by all those involved in helping to reduce the misery of Bolton's homeless people.
Hilary Murrant
Eileen Worsley
Green Hall Close
Atherton
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article