Thesis
Since 2010, the number of people sleeping rough in the UK has risen steadily; in Northamptonshire, the figure has more than doubled over a five-year period. While the pandemic saw councils in England take in 37,000 people to protect them from Covid-19, some are facing a return to the streets.
Experiencing homelessness at a young age can lead to further incidences of homelessness later in life, an increased likelihood of developing complex issues and increased use of high-cost services, including A&E and the criminal justice system. By providing tailored support for young people and helping them move into accommodation, education and employment, we can create long-term, sustainable change.
Investment
We are supporting Mayday Trust, a UK charity based in the Midlands which helps young homeless people in Northamptonshire into accommodation, education and employment. Mayday offers support through its unique ‘Personal Transitions Service’ – the first strength-based model of support for people experiencing homelessness and other hardships. It focuses on building strengths, aspirations, relationships and purpose rather than focussing on needs and problems, and it aims to provide the most relevant interventions at the right times. The project is a partnership between Northamptonshire NHS, First For Wellbeing, University of Northampton, The National Lottery Community Fund and Northamptonshire County Council, with project finance and project management support from Bridges.
Outcomes
The goal of the service is to develop their client’s personal ‘assets’, create positive networks and hand power back to the individual, thereby creating long-term sustainable change. 103 young people have now been successfully housed against a target of 94, 21 young people have started education or training, and 17 have started employment.
www.maydaytrust.org.uk
