Youth homelessness in Bristol is rising due to the compounding pressures of increasing rental prices, a lack of social housing provision and the cost-of-living crisis
Youth homelessness in Bristol is rising due to the compounding pressures of increasing rental prices, a lack of social housing provision and the cost-of-living crisis
That’s why St Martin-in-the-Fields Charity funds Project Z, Caring in Bristol’s service for people aged 16-25 who are experiencing multiple difficulties around their housing situation.
“My role enables me to build trusting relationships with young people to address the specific barriers they face, and build on their strengths to overcome them. Recovering from homelessness and finding stability can take time. The opportunity to work over longer periods of time, which the Frontline funding creates, is a facet of my work that I value, since it creates the vital room to create lasting change.”
Holly Bigwood, Youth Practitioner, Caring in Bristol
Why the project is so important
Young people often experience homelessness differently
“They’re discriminated against because of their age. Landlords don’t think that young people are responsible and will look after their homes. They often don’t want to give young people a chance in that respect. They’re only entitled to a lower rate of housing benefit [Local Housing Allowance] or Universal Credit. Having a job and renting are generally more difficult for young people. And I think people forget that that starting out in your adult life is tough for anyone, like starting anything new without experience. It’s difficult.” Shanta Foley, Youth Practitioner, Caring in Bristol.
Project Z supports young people to identify the skills, resources, and strengths they need to deal with their circumstances. The Project Z team support their young people to work their way through these things, finding a new capacity to problem-solve, and to look after themselves as they do so.
Empowering young people
The youth practitioners of the Project Z team focus on building relationships based on trust and respect; the young person’s identity, needs, and aspirations are at the heart of it.
“Nine times out of ten, it’s not been great for them, so all they need is somebody to guide them through it. That’s all they need. Some support. That’s what we do, and we do it really well.” Holly Bigwood, Youth Practitioner, Caring in Bristol.
The support the project provides
Thanks to the Frontline Fund, the Project Z team provide holistic support to young people across Bristol. They will be allocated a dedicated support practitioner, and will also have access to courses on topics such as wellbeing, DIY, and independent living skills. Young people also have access to fresh food via Bristol Youth Goods weekly sessions.
The support and guidance provided can be wide-ranging. By taking their cue from the young people, the Project Z team ensure that each individual feels in control of their journey away from homelessness, equipped with the knowledge and skills to realise their potential as happy and healthy adults.
