Steps to independence

smartmoves is a partnership between Gingerbread, Brighter Futures and North Staffs YMCA. We are committed to using our experience and expertise to provide excellent services to the people of

Stoke-on-Trent. We will provide customers with help to maintain their independence in their home by providing high quality support that puts their aspirations and needs at the centre of our service.

smartmoves is a FREE service that will provide customers with support, help and information to give them the skills and knowledge to live successfully in their own home. We will work with them to make sure that what we offer is what they need. If their need changes then we will make sure what we offer changes.
Customers do not have to live in rented accommodation to receive help from smartmoves. We can help whether they rent from the Council, a Housing Association, a Private Landlord or live in their own home.

Anyone can apply for support from smartmoves, if they live in Stoke-on-Trent and are:    

• Single, a family or a couple
• Aged 16 and over
• Have their own tenancy
• At risk of losing your home
• Need help to sort out your bills and debt
• Living alone and feeling lonely
• Finding it hard to cope
• Homeless in Newcastle or Staffordshire Moorlands  

Customers benefit from having their own personal action plan based on what they want to achieve. Personal Support Plans help with the following: 

Managing your                        help to find furniture, get repairs done and

home                                      keeping your home clean   

Managing Money                     help to budget your money so there’s

                                              enough for everything you need including

                                              your gas and electric bills etc 

Self care and                         help you to look after yourself and

living skills                             your home  

Motivation and                       helping you reach your goals and stay focused                         

taking responsibility 

Meaningful use                       help to find education, training and fun 

of time                                   activities that interest you and give you

                                              a reason to get up in the morning 

Social networks and               help to meet up with new people and

relationships                          reconnect with family and friends 

Physical health                       help to find G.P.s, dentists etc and

                                              how to make and go to appointments 

Emotional & Mental                support through difficult times and help

wellbeing                                to use other services 

Drug and Alcohol                   help to use substance misuse services and

misuse                                   support to get you through it 

Offending                             support with probation or paying fines

If you feel you would benefit from smartmoves support please contact 01782 202980 for further information or to make a referral.