For young people

Getting ready for your own home

Open Door helps young people leaving care get ready to live on their own.

A young person, seen from behind, carrying a box up to a front door

What is Open Door?

Your own space. Your own choices. Your future.

Open Door offers safe, welcoming and supportive homes for young people across four locations in West Yorkshire, helping you take your next steps towards independence.

You'll have your very own fully furnished apartment, with everything you need to get started. It's your space to relax, be yourself and make it feel like home.

And while you'll have your own independence, you're never on your own. Our friendly team is here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, whether you need advice, support or simply someone to talk to.

There's also a shared space where you can spend time with other young people, join in activities, cook together or just have a chat.

We respect your privacy, listen to your views and support you to make your own choices, at a pace that feels right for you.

Open Door is more than just somewhere to live. It's a place to grow, build confidence and take steps towards the future you want.

Your skills checklist

These are things we can help you learn. Tick them off as you go.

  • Looking after your flat
  • Paying bills and budgeting
  • Cooking simple meals
  • Cleaning and washing
  • Seeing a doctor or dentist
  • Getting benefits
  • College, training or a job
  • Things to do in your free time
  • Family, friends and your area

Your plan, step by step

Your support plan

We make a plan with you. It says what help you need. We update it often.

Checking in every month

Every month we ask how things are going. Your plan can change if you need it to.

Planning your next home

When you are ready, we plan where you will live next. Other services help with this.

Your rights and your say

You are treated with respect

We treat you as a person, not a case. Your dignity matters to us.

You make your own choices

We help you make your own decisions.

You help plan your support

Your support plan is about you. We check it with you often.

You can tell us what you think

Every month we ask how things are going. Young people help shape how Open Door works.

Everyone is treated fairly

We treat everyone equally, whoever they are.

Questions young people ask

Will I have my own flat?

Yes. You have your own fully furnished apartment, with your own kitchen, bathroom, living space and bedroom.

Is there someone to help at night?

Yes. There is support 24 hours a day, every day.

How do I get a place?

Talk to your social worker or personal adviser. They contact us. We then talk with you about the help you need.

Can I go to college or get a job?

Yes. We will support you to find education, training or work.

Can I see my family and friends?

We can help you get back in touch with family and friends. Only if you want to.

What if I need help with drugs, alcohol or relationships?

Talk to staff. We can help you get support from other services.

Young person's guides

Each home has its own guide for the young people who live there. It explains how the home works, who is there to help, your rights and who to contact.

Want to live at Open Door?

Talk to your social worker or personal adviser. They can get in touch with us.

Need help now? See who to call.