We call on the Government to provide funding for local councils to fund shelters specifically for under 25s. Some young people experiencing homelessness face risks that adult shelters are not designed to handle, and may avoid existing shelters because they feel intimidated, or unsupported.

Such funding must be used to ensure such shelters are safe, welcoming, and youth-focused, with trained staff who understand trauma and youth needs. We want these shelters to provide wraparound support, including mental health services, education and employment assistance and pathways into stable housing. We also believe that unnecessary barriers such as strict curfews or excessive entry requirements that prevent young people from gaining help should be removed. We are concerned that young people who do not get support via shelters sleep rough, couch surf, or remain in dangerous situation including abuse, exploitation, and trafficking.