Providing a safe, non-judgemental environment in which young mothers can receive support and assistance on all issues that may affect their lives and those of their children with the aim of preparing them for independent living.

St Paul's Lodge, Great Yarmouth

GFS Platform has run a shared supported housing scheme for young mothers in Great Yarmouth since 1990. St Paul's Lodge has eight bedrooms and two move-on flats that accommodate a total of 10 young mothers and their babies.

The support offered includes:

• Help with claiming benefits and form filling.
• Budgeting.
• Cooking including healthy eating for mother and child.
• Parenting and Family Learning.
• Life Skills.
• Referral to specialist agencies such as Counselling when required.
• Partnership working with other professionals such as Health Visitors.

St Paul's Lodge has close links with GFS Platform Great Yarmouth and young mothers are encouraged to access the services offered there such as the Connexions Personal Advisor and Education.

In addition, young mothers living at St Paul's Lodge receive a number of free hours for their child in the nursery through the Teenage Pregnancy Scheme. This enables young mothers who have little or no help from family and friends to have a short break from their child.