In February, over 130 supporters at London Sleep Out took part in our latest activity, Out of Options. Racing against the clock, they had to try and direct Sam, a young person at risk of homelessness, to the support she needed. They were given a range of solutions, such as contacting the local council or asking for support from college, and they needed to help Sam before the time ran out.
However, in every case, people ran out of time and Sam ran out of options.
Sleep Out attendees take part in Out of Options
Sam is not alone. Whilst Out of Options can only give a glimpse into the real-life experiences of young people facing homelessness, many are facing the same limited options Sam had and having to make hard decisions about where they will sleep that night.
What is the national scale of youth homelessness?
Every year, thousands of young people in the UK face homelessness.
One third of young people who go to their council for help do not often receive the support – a homelessness assessment – that they are entitled to.
Why we're campaigning for No Young Person Left Out
Councils are stretched to breaking point, forced to make difficult decisions with the funding they have. With fewer resources and rising need, young people are paying the price.
Everyone taking part in our Sleep Out London event was able to learn more about the reasons young people become homeless and how councils need to support young people further.
However, the activity also led to more questions. One person asked, “If it’s the council’s legal duty to conduct an assessment, why are so many young people being turned away?”
That’s exactly why we’re campaigning to find out more. Why are thousands of young people being turned away when asking for support? Why are their stories not always being believed?
We’re calling for an official government review into homelessness assessment rates by local authorities. An assessment is the first step towards a young person at risk of homelessness getting the support they need. The government must ensure that every homeless young person who approaches their council receives one.
Get involved in the campaign
- Add your name to the petition if you agree that no young person should be left without the support they need.
- Share the Out of Options activity to raise awareness of the young people being failed at the time they're most vulnerable to becoming homeless.
Thank you to everyone who joined us at Sleep Out
Sleep Out is your chance to raise vital funds, stand in solidarity, and help to ensure no young person has to face homelessness alone. By raising your voices together, you sent a message that cannot be ignored. Thank you to everyone who came along to Sleep Out London for speaking out for young people.
