Issues affecting young people
The young people we work with have a diverse range of needs and personal histories. The often chaotic and unstable lives of homeless young people mean that poor physical and mental health is common. Some have slept rough on the streets (around 50% of Centrepoint young people), some are refugees (currently 30%), some may be misusing alcohol or drugs; all of them are going through early adulthood and need guidance as they change and grow.
Finance and debt
Most young people have ordinary ambitions – to get a job and a decent place to live. Yet many young people who want to make a fresh start are hindered by debts.
Learning and skills
Many homeless young people do not have high educational aspirations and they are not engaged in learning.
Leaving care
Care leavers are some of the most vulnerable young people in our communities, yet they are more likely to experience social exclusion.
Mental health
Research by Centrepoint and the Mental Health Foundation suggests that there is an increasing proportion of young people who are both homeless and experience mental health problems.
Housing
The average age for leaving home is 24. However, the majority of young people at Centrepoint have been forced to leave their parental home before they are 21 - often when they are only 16 or 17.
Health
For many young people their experiences of homelessness not only impact on their mental health but also on their physical health.
Refugee and asylum
Young people who are refugees or asylum seekers can face many issues when trying to secure accommodation for themselves
