The YPSF was established in 2005 to “find more effective ways of dealing with homelessness problems as they arise’ and to develop preventative approaches to homelessness and other problems experienced by young people. People are considered homeless if they are living on the streets, squatting, living in a hostel or bed and breakfast accommodation, or staying temporarily with friends or family. Young people are at risk of becoming homeless for a variety of reasons: family breakdown, domestic violence, debt, mental illness, drug and alcohol dependency or bereavement.
A drop-in advice service is available at the City Centre Project, and this if often the first port of call for the young person. They can have a hot breakfast, a shower and avail of laundry facilities. And this is where the Vincentian Volunteer has the most to offer. While the skilled professionals advise and support the young people with access to emergency or temporary accommodation, advice on welfare benefits, housing and a whole range of personal and social issues, the volunteer can offer a friendly face, make a cup of tea, cook the breakfast, and generally be around for the young person if they just want a chat, or a moan! This seems a very simple service, but it is an important one for these vulnerable young people who will usually respond to another young face!
The volunteer can benefit from observing the trained professionals, have relevant training, and be an observer at some of the sessions for the young people. They can learn how the young person’s needs are identified, and the process involved in taking them forward into adulthood.
www.ypsf.co.uk/index1.php