PocDoc backs Cambridge Housing Society fund helping vulnerable young people into work

Cambridge, 5th August 2026 – Cambridge Housing Society (CHS) is helping vulnerable young people overcome one of the biggest barriers to building independent lives through its Employment Support Fund, which helps bridge the gap between low starting salaries and the high cost of housing for those living in its supported housing services.

The programme has attracted support from local businesses and business leaders, including Cambridge health technology entrepreneur Steve Roest, founder and CEO of PocDoc, who is donating both his time and funding to help more young people take their first steps into employment and independent living.

For many young people living in supported accommodation, securing a job should mark the beginning of greater independence. However, because living costs are higher than in social or private rent due to the support that is provided, entry level wages often fail to keep pace making taking that first step into employment potentially financially challenging. For some, the cost of rent can consume much of their income, making it difficult to build financial stability despite being in work.

Cambridge Housing Society's Employment Support Fund helps tackle this challenge by providing financial support during the crucial early stages of employment, ensuring young people are not forced to choose between taking up work and maintaining stable accommodation and support. Every resident who has received support from the fund has remained in employment throughout their time with Cambridge Housing Society. Several have progressed from zero hours or part time roles into full time permanent employment before moving into independent living, the ultimate goal of the programme.

Charlotte Cane, Liberal Democrat MP for Ely and East Cambridgeshire said:

“Young people in our area face far too many obstacles trying to find reliable and accessible employment and housing. Rising house prices and rents, mounting energy costs and the absence of affordable, reliable public transport are making it increasingly difficult for young people to make a start in life.

That’s why schemes such as Cambridge Housing Society’s Employment Support Fund are so important - helping young people overcome the barriers which, through no fault of their own, are stopping them from being able to secure the independent employment whilst retaining the support and housing they need to build their lives and careers.

I’ve seen the fascinating work that Steve and the team at PocDoc do - they are a real asset to science and innovation in our area, so it’s great to see them giving back to local young people with this new partnership with Cambridge Housing Society. I wish PocDoc and Cambridge Housing Society all the best as they launch this much-needed programme.”

Steve Roest, Founder and CEO of PocDoc, said:

"Work should be the start of a brighter future, but for many vulnerable young people the financial reality means taking that first job can feel impossible. When accommodation costs absorb such a large proportion of someone's income, it becomes much harder to build stability and plan for the future.

Cambridge Housing Society has created a practical solution that helps bridge that gap. I'm incredibly proud to support an organisation that is giving young people the opportunity to build careers, develop confidence and create independent lives here in Cambridge."

Roman, who has benefited from the Employment Support Fund, said:

"When I started working, I thought I'd finally be taking the first steps towards becoming more independent. Instead, I found myself in a position where having a job actually made it harder to afford somewhere to live. It felt like I was being penalised for working, and there were times when I genuinely thought I would have to leave my home because I simply couldn't make the finances work.

The Employment Support Fund completely changed that. It gave me the breathing space I needed to stay in work, clear my rent arrears and start planning for the future instead of constantly worrying about whether I'd be able to keep a roof over my head. I'm incredibly grateful that Cambridge Housing Society recognised this challenge and created a fund that helps people like me. It has given me the stability and confidence to keep moving forward."

Cambridge Housing Society Communications & Fundraising Manager Kristina Cairns said:

"Employment has the power to transform lives, but for many of the young people living in our supported housing services, the transition into work comes with significant financial challenges. Our Employment Support Fund exists to make sure those first steps into employment are sustainable, giving young people the stability they need to build lasting independence whilst still being able to access the support they rely on.

We're incredibly grateful to Steve and all of our supporters whose generosity is helping more young people access employment and realise their potential. Their backing is making a genuine difference to lives across Cambridgeshire."

Alongside Steve Roest, the Employment Support Fund is supported by a growing network of local businesses, including property development company HTS Estates and award winning hospitality group Cambs Cuisine, which operates seven pubs and restaurants across Cambridgeshire. Their support reflects a shared commitment to investing in young people and strengthening local communities.

Cambridge Housing Society supports vulnerable young people and communities across Cambridge and the wider county through affordable housing, supported accommodation, employability and mentoring programmes, helping people build the skills, confidence and stability needed to thrive.