Lead tenants live as house mates with young people as live-in role models and mentors. They coordinate the effective running of the home, assist in developing independent living skills and encourage interpersonal relationship skills with residents.

Lead tenants, relievers and mentors are expected to:

• Be a committed Christian and be a positive role model for the young person.

• Provide a safe and supportive environment for the young person that takes into account physical, emotional and developmental needs.

• Relate to the young person in a respectful and nonthreatening manner that is appropriate to age, gender and culture.

• Help the young person learn practical living skills and assist in working towards the recognised case plan and placement goals.

• Work as a team player with YFC, abiding by its decisions that have been made in negotiation with the housing workers and participate in YFC training sessions and support meetings.

• Facilitate and participate in weekly house nights with the residents.

• Spend time at home with the young people at least three evenings per week.

• Commit for a minimum of 12 months to the housing program, this includes regular review periods.

Support
YFC provides practical support and it is expected that the lead tenants seek support from within their church community. YFC support includes regular meetings with lead tenants, after hours on-call service, specialised training and an opportunity to meet with other lead tenants. YFC also provides relievers to support lead tenants in allowing them to take regular breaks away from the house.

Lifestyle changes
It’s important to be aware that sharing a home with a young person may require a number of lifestyle changes.

Due to the responsibilities of being a lead tenant, living in the house may incur some restrictions and take some adjusting to get used to. This could include having to plan ahead for time away, being mindful of the regulations of the house and ensuring young people’s safety.

Challenges
Lead tenants need to have enough time, energy and space available (both physically and emotionally).

A young person in the housing program may display difficult behaviours. This at times can be frustrating. It is important to recognise that the young person may have had a number of difficult experiences, including abuse, separation, grief and loss. This can be confronting and may bring up your own past personal experiences.

Due to past experiences of young people, building relationships and trust may take time. It is important to be patient and establish a consistent and safe home environment.

The nature of the house and circumstances that may arise, may cause you to feel drained. Therefore, it is important to develop skills in being aware of your personal needs and energy levels and making sure that you have appropriate supports and breaks to ensure adequate self-care.

Benefits
Lead tenants have the privilege of developing positive relationships with young people who may have had limited experiences of loving and supportive relationships. The relationship with the lead tenants can have a significant impact on their future in bringing about change through hope and healing.

Personal growth may come through facing challenges, learning skills and becoming aware of your strengths.

• Make initial inquiry to register your interest and you will receive a housing information pack.

• Lodge YFC Volunteer Application Form.

• Attend an information session, held at YFC.

• Participate in an interview.

• Submit extra documentation including Police Check and Working with Children’s Check.

• Approval is granted and an induction for your role is undertaken.

• Attend a house night to meet the tenants.

• Lead Tenants will be asked to be a reliever for a period of time prior to moving into a full time Lead Tenant role.

• You will receive regular support and supervision from YFC and are also required to participate in ongoing training and adhere to YFC policies.

Want to know more? Why not fill in a volunteer application inquiry form today? Be sure to specify HOUSING as your area of interest.