Homeless charity offers young people stability

A homeless organisation helping young people with the tools they need to live independently.

Charlie, 20, was living in emergency accommodation, provided by Cornwall Council after being homeless for about two weeks.

He was contacted by charity Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) Cornwall, based in Penzance, who offer young people aged 16 to 24 years old supported housing, advice and "life skills".

Charlie, who has been living in a small flat for about one year courtesy of the charity, said: "It was refreshing to finally have that stability and support."

Charlie said: "I was living in hotel rooms... some were better than others.

"It was a little unnerving.

"I'm extremely lucky to have been homeless for two weeks... I know some people in this county have been homeless for way longer."

The charity, which also supports people in Exeter and Plymouth, has launched its Winter Appeal to help it to continue providing safe accommodation, practical support and skills to help young people to develop and live independently.

Managing director Faye Edwards said while Cornwall was a popular holiday destination, there was a side of it "many people don't see".

Edwards said: "There are young people facing homelessness, sleeping in unsafe places, sofa surfing or struggling to find somewhere affordable to live.

"Winter can be particularly difficult and dangerous for young people at risk."

She said housing support officers tailored their support depending on the individuals' needs whether it was help with their bills or managing a food shop.

YMCA Cornwall has 51 properties with one-to-one support for each resident for two years and support for up to six months for those moving on.

"They're not going to leave me stranded," said Charlie.

Charlie said: "I've gained a lot more independence and life skills.

"It's been life-changing for me.

"It may take a few tries to get used to those stages of life so doing independent things like washing, cleaning, paying rent is important."

Since having the support, Charlie now works in retail and wants start learning how to drive before he moves out in a years' time.

He said the housing officers went "above and beyond" and encouraged people to donate to the charity's Winter Appeal because it can "do so much for a young person".

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