A young person becomes homeless every four minutes
Family breakdown is the leading cause of youth homelessness in the UK, but the cost-of-living crisis, lack of affordable homes and fewer publicly funded support services have all led to an increase in those affected. Changes to Home Office policies have also seen a huge surge in young refugees forced to leave their accommodation without adequate support or time to do so. Many young people end up sofa surfing, sleeping in public spaces or unsafe places, or sleeping rough on the streets.
Almost 60% of youth homelessness is caused by family breakdown. There are all kinds of reasons why this happens – grief and loss, domestic or sexual violence, poverty, and a lack of understanding and acceptance around sexual orientation, gender identity, neurodiversity or mental health.
Whatever the backstory, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to realise their potential and the chance to make a positive contribution to their community. Without the stability and security of a safe home, young people can’t build a future or realise their dreams.
John’s home life, like many young people who face homelessness, wasn’t easy. At just 16, and after years of abuse, he felt he had no choice but to leave. After receiving support from Depaul UK he is now moving into his own flat for the first time and plans to study Paramedic Science at university.
