The Housing Promise was agreed by today's Executive Committee, reflecting the council’s shared commitment as a corporate parent to long‑term, stable support for young people as they move on from care.

The commitment includes new modular homes, clearer housing pathways and dedicated support, helping young people build confidence and independence at a pace that is right for them.

As part of this commitment, £500,000 of council funding has been approved to install five modular homes within the grounds of existing children’s houses. These homes will provide a supported stepping‑stone towards independent living, allowing young people to remain close to trusted relationships, staff and local services before moving into their own tenancy.

Chair of the council’s Social Work Resources Committee, Councillor Margaret Walker, said: “Young people leaving care deserve the same stability, security and support that any parent would want for their own child.

“This Housing Promise is about putting that responsibility into practice — by strengthening housing pathways and investing in homes that help young people move forward with confidence.”

The Housing Promise reflects national expectations set out in The Promise, which commits Scotland to improving outcomes for children and young people with care experience by ensuring they are supported, respected and prepared for adult life.

For young people themselves, having the right housing and support in place can make a real difference. One young person said: “Having my own space helped me believe I could manage on my own. It was a big step, but knowing support was there made all the difference. It gave me confidence and made me feel trusted.”

The Housing Promise builds on South Lanarkshire’s wider approach to corporate parenting and complements the council’s Employability Promise, helping create a more joined‑up route from care into housing, learning and work.

Chair of the council’s Housing and Technical Resources Committee, Councillor Davie McLachlan, said: “Through this approach, the council aims to provide young people leaving care with greater stability at a key point in their lives and a stronger foundation for the future.”