From the frontline - Fern Smith

What does your job involve?

I help care leavers get the skills and confidence to live independently. Our ‘Step Up’ project offers these young people a six-month tenancy in an Alliance Homes flat, to give them a realistic experience of what life will be like when they are managing a tenancy for the first time. I provide support in areas including benefits, budgeting, health, education and employment.

How did you get into housing?

I did a drama degree at university and never imagined a career in housing. I gained experience using theatre in the community to support and educate people and I knew helping others was what I wanted to do. This led me into a career as a support worker with Alliance before I moved to the Step Up project two years ago.

What would you change about the sector if you could?

We need affordable housing options for people aged 16 to 25. The benefit cap of £67 a week makes it challenging for young people who are unemployed or on low incomes to live independently.

What’s the best thing about your job?

Seeing the people I work with change and progress. It’s fantastic when a young person finds accommodation where they can start a new life.

And the most challenging?

The waiting lists for services can be really frustrating. Often you need to catch young people at the moment they are asking for help.

What’s your dream job?

I would love to be a foster carer one day. Every child matters and deserves a safe and secure home. This is a huge passion of mine.

What’s the first thing you’d do if you became prime minister?

I would introduce life skills to the school curriculum, meaning children would learn early on about finding housing, paying their bills etc.

What would be your superpower and why?

The ability to be in more than one place at a time. Maybe all my visits and admin would get done by the end of every day!

What’s the most private thing you’d be willing to admit to colleagues?

I used to be an aspiring actor and starred in plays such as Alice in Wonderland and The Tempest. But Hollywood will need to wait for now!