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All I want for Christmas: 'found families' make the festive period worth celebrating

Dale Taylor-Gentles, Former Centrepoint Resident

Dale Taylor-Gentles became a carer for his grandmother aged 12 and homeless at just 16. He was eventually placed in a Centrepoint residence, where he worked hard with his mentor to gain a place at university.  Here, he tells us why Christmas can often feel like the loneliest time of year for young people without a stable family structure, and how his 'Found Family' meant he could look forward to the holidays once again.

Creating safe spaces for homeless LGBTQ+ youths

Pascale Day, Senior Editorial and Web Officer

Research shows LGBT young people are more likely to find themselves homeless than their non-LGBT peers, and make up around 24% of the young homeless population. On top of this, they are far more likely to be subjected to violence - both in and out of services. As February marks LGBT Awareness Month, we're asking the all-important question: how can we ensure we create safe spaces for members of the LGBTQ+ community without a place to stay?

What is universal credit? Everything you need to know

Pascale Day, Senior Editorial and Web Officer

Universal Credit is the new benefits system which aims to make welfare payments easier for claimants. But what was once billed as being more generous than the old system is now leaving many worse off than before. Here's what you need to know about Universal Credit - and what we can do to ensure it serves those who need it most.

COVID-19 pandemic: we need hostels to stay open

Policy Team

The COVID-19 pandemic poses unprecedented risks to all, but those experiencing or at risk of homelessness are especially vulnerable. Charities like Centrepoint, Depaul UK and St Mungo’s which directly provide accommodation for people who are homeless are determined to do everything it takes to maintain the high level of service we deliver all year round, yet the sector needs vital support from the government to do this.