Interview with Kathryn Mahon, Specialist Support Worker at Powerhouse Foyer, Liverpool – a temporary, supported accommodation service for young people aged 16 to 21.

What effect does homelessness have on young people?

Homelessness can have a serious impact on a young person’s mental well-being. It can worsen existing conditions such as anxiety, depression, or eating disorders. Some may turn to criminal activity to get a place to stay or a sofa to sleep on. Others may be exposed to substance misuse or abuse. And it can leave young people feeling incredibly lonely if they’ve lost contact with family and friends.

What barriers do young people face when trying to move on from homelessness?

Young people will face barriers and discrimination when homeless, as many jobs demand a permanent home address before they’ll hire someone, which can make it almost impossible for them to break the cycle of homelessness. If they live in supported accommodation and are successful in seeking employment, they may not be able to afford the high rents and service charges associated with living there. And they may need to save for a deposit for accommodation, but their low income means they are unable to do so.

What do you wish people understood about homelessness amongst young people?

Sometimes society will stereotype homeless people as criminals or drug and alcohol abusers and won’t give them a chance. I wish more people understood and were more empathetic with them, as the reasons for homelessness could be due to a lot of different issues they have suffered and are escaping from. For example, parent conflict, loss of a parent, divorce – or financial, mental and physical abuse from family or friends.

What difference does the support of CHC make for young people at the foyer?

We have received funding for excursions from CHC, which staff and residents have been so grateful for. This has benefited the residents in different ways – being out in the sunshine brings a sense of calm and encourages activity and exercise.

The social aspect allows the young kids to socialise with other residents of their age and relax and enjoy being out in new places, which can help with their confidence. A day out with the support from staff can make a positive impact on our residents who struggle daily with their emotions or well-being.

Many of our clients have received funding for clothes and shoes, etc, as they may have left their clothes and belongings behind when leaving or fleeing an abusive home or living on the streets. The new clothes have made them feel better in mood and more confident in appearance, which helps towards their self-esteem.

Also, many have received funding for resettlement, which has helped fund household items for the new accommodation. Again, this relieves a lot of worry and financial stress, which helps with their well-being and focus on other issues.