News

Point Made's first episode where former and current Centrepoint residents discuss their research into the benefits system.

Financial benefits, housing support and access to government employment programmes are all key to helping homeless people gain their independence. However, for the homeless, benefits – and the process of claiming them – can sometimes seem confusing. That’s why we’re here to help with our handy guide to your entitlement.

Today sees the London mayoral elections take place once again, but this year will be different from the others: in the wake of a pandemic that has devastated the lives of many all over the country, there is much to rebuild. All candidates have vowed to improve London over the next four years – but who will make a difference to the lives of homeless young people?

Centrepoint’s new report, A Year Like No Other, has reflected on the impact of the last year on vulnerable young people, looking at youth unemployment, homelessness, poverty and mental health, and assessing the impact of the government’s policy interventions during the pandemic. Here, Deputy Service Manager Emily Cretch talks us through the research, and reflects on how the past year has been for her and her team.

The Office for National Statistics states 2.3 million people experienced domestic abuse in the year to March 2020 – and with the current restrictions of coronavirus, this number is likely to soar. So what are the signs of domestic abuse? What should we do if we encounter them? And how can we help young people through such turmoil? Here, we explain everything you need to know.

As more expectant mothers are finding themselves without a roof over their head, the right support has never been more vital. This not only ensures the health and well-being of the mother but of her child as well. We’re here to guide you through your options and the services available to help you through this crucial time.

Coronavirus has been tough on everyone, but as we go into winter, young people will face far tougher conditions than most. It’s this demographic that are most at risk of losing their jobs during the pandemic, and without a steady income it’s likely to force some young people into precarious circumstances.

Last month, when the Children’s Commissioner Anne Longfield said 16- and 17 year-olds in care should not be put in danger by their accommodation, you’d be hard pressed to find someone that disagreed. But to follow the Commissioner’s suggestion and ban unregulated accommodation would be to throw the baby out with the bathwater. Here's what needs to be done instead.

Want to donate to a food bank, or thinking about using one yourself? Here's everything you need to know about doing this safely during the ongoing pandemic.

This week Centrepoint sent our submission to the Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review - which has since been cancelled in favour of a ‘winter economy plan’. However, this still gives charities like Centrepoint the opportunity to identify where we think money needs to be spent and policies need to be changed.

Finland’s government have managed to significantly reduce the number of homeless people in the country. Could their system work in a post-Covid UK?

Vicky Nevin, Centrepoint’s Public Affairs and Campaigns Officer, reflects on the success of the Chance To Move On campaign. Ahead of the Spending Review, she calls for greater government investment to prevent youth homelessness.