Dear Editor,
Yesterday (Wednesday 23 November) the ONS published figures which estimated 741 deaths of homeless people in England and Wales registered in 2021. Of these, 31 of them were between 16 and 24 years old. This is a 63% increase compared to 2020 – but one death is too many.
We know that homelessness can have a devastating effect on a person’s mental and physical health. One night on the streets can change a young person’s life ─ they are at risk of violence, abuse, theft, the influence of drinks and drugs, and experiences that can leave long-term trauma and lead to poor mental health.
With such strong links between financial difficulties and conflict in the home – the impact of increased debt, spiraling bills and low incomes is seeing family relationships breaking down. As a result, more young people are on the verge of homelessness and this winter risks pushing many of them over the edge. Today’s statistics demonstrate that they aren’t just at risk of losing their homes, but also their lives.
The sooner we get young people off the streets, the better.
At Depaul UK, we are focused on getting young people off the streets and into safety, by providing life-changing support. We know times are tough for everyone, but no young person should have to sleep in an unsafe place. Our Nightstop service has local volunteers from all over the country providing rooms for the night. It is a lifeline for so many. I would like to invite readers to consider becoming a volunteer and looking for ways they can help so that we can end homelessness altogether.
Thanks and kind regards,
Mike Thiedke, Depaul UK CEO
Depaul UK, Sherborne House, 34 Decima Street, London, SE1 4QQ
Telephone Number: 0207 939 1220
