Mental health support for young people

Adverse childhood experiences and mental health issues are unfortunately very common among young homeless people. A large proportion are social care leavers, and many others are unaccompanied asylum seekers; experiences of violence, abuse and other traumatic events affect many of them. Without the right intervention and support, these young people are at high risk of continued homelessness, ongoing mental health issues and a range of other negative life outcomes.

The Cardinal Hume Centre in Westminster provides supported accommodation for young homeless people between the ages of 16-24. About half of the residents suffer from mental health issues, so the centre offers therapeutic psychological support to those who need it, as part of a holistic and individualised support plan. Two mental health professionals visit the centre twice weekly, so residents are able to access support on-site in a familiar environment. The psychologists work to alleviate young people’s mental health issues, helping to build their resilience, in order to give them the best chance of improving their life outcomes and preventing future homelessness.