

Youth homelessness: the effects


Nowhere to go

Young people have different issues and needs to adults, so they are many reasons why they can become homeless. It's often because it's not safe for them to stay at home, or family life has become too hard.



At risk and exhausted

No home, no bed, no security and no stability – being homeless is exhausting and affects every part of a vulnerable young person’s life. No wonder they take risks to find somewhere to sleep.


Mental health

The physical toll of sleeping outside is one issue, but sleeping on a bus or ever-changing network of sofas and floors can be just as challenging. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety or anorexia are easily made worse under these conditions.


Poor health and nutrition

Homeless young people often don’t have access to enough affordable, nutritious food. 60% of young people in our services told us they had skipped meals, slept hungry and eaten less because they couldn’t afford to eat.


Finding a job

Youth unemployment in the UK is still almost three times higher than the rest of the population. Getting into work is particularly tough for disadvantaged young people facing extra challenges in their lives.

A icon representing that being homeless often disrupts education.

Disrupted education



Violence and abuse


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Help young people have life-saving conversations

Since 2017, over 8,000 people have been supported by the Centrepoint Helpline. But, with over 103,000 homeless young people approaching their local council for help last year, there are still many more we need to reach. Help us expand the Centrepoint Helpline so we can have more crucial conversations with vulnerable young people.

Meet Tamara: The best Mum she could be

At 35 weeks pregnant, Tamara became homeless. After her mum kicked her out, she had nowhere else to turn. But with support and a lot of determination, Tamara has turned her life around and grown in confidence.

Young woman outdoors smiling

What's the solution to youth homelessness?


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Experiences of youth homelessness

Read real experiences on the impact of youth homelessness, through the words of young people and the professionals who support them.

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