Young people help tackle homelessness

Young people from A2 Housing Group's supported housing schemes in Salisbury, Winchester and Waterlooville, are tackling youth homelessness head on by taking part in a Thames Valley ITV broadcast. In the item, due to be aired next week, the 16-25 year olds have chosen to publicly discuss their experiences to try and improve the sometimes negative perceptions associated with homeless people.

Four residents were interviewed and spoke frankly about the circumstances that led them to require housing and support, and how the help that they have received has positively impacted on their lives. As well as the residents, James Arnold, Supported Housing Team Leader for the area was interviewed and he praised the hard work of all A2 Housing Group's support staff.

12 residents were also filmed taking part in an art workshop, one of the many educational activities all the projects support. The workshop run by external trainers, Sue Fox and Sue Kenneally, was designed to teach new skills, build confidence and encourage further training and education.

Tamsin Harper, Resident Involvement Co-ordinator says, "The idea for the filming came from the 'Westgate Service Users Consultative Group' who see improving their profile and tackling negative perceptions as one of their main aims. This group is controlled by young people from across our supported housing schemes and we are pleased to support something that they feel so strongly about." 

The work to change the perception of supported housing projects and the issue of youth homelessness will not stop here. There are current plans for residents to visit schools in their communities and talk to children about the reality of homelessness and where to turn to for support. A promotional DVD with extended footage of the ITV interviews has also being produced and will be used to educate young people in the local area.

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