Support for young people experiencing homelessness in Peterborough - you're not alone, help is available
Youth homelessness is a growing crisis in the UK. Many young people find themselves without a home due to family breakdown, mental health issues, leaving care, or simply not being able to afford housing. If you're under 25 and experiencing homelessness, you're not alone and there's specific support available for you.
Being homeless as a young person is especially tough, but you have rights and there are people who want to help you get back on your feet. Your future still has so much potential, and this situation doesn't have to define you.
Your age means you have additional protections and priority for help. Don't be afraid to reach out - services are specifically designed to support young people like you.
Free, confidential support anytime
Safe places to stay tonight
Free meals and food parcels
Someone to talk to
If you're under 18, you're automatically considered in priority need for housing. The council has a legal duty to help you.
If you've been in care, you have additional rights including support until you're 25 and priority housing.
You have the right to continue education even if homeless. Schools and colleges must support you.
You may be entitled to benefits, bursaries, and grants specifically for young people.
Accommodation with built-in support
Including foyers, supported lodgings, and youth hostels with staff on-site
Help staying in school or college
Including transport, uniforms, and additional funding
Help finding work and training
Including apprenticeships, traineeships, and job-seeking support
Specialist youth mental health services
Including counselling, therapy, and peer support
Learn to live independently
Including cooking, budgeting, and life skills training
Keep your phone charged and credit. Save important numbers. Let someone you trust know where you are.
Know where you can go for help - libraries, community centres, youth services, police stations.
If a situation feels unsafe, it probably is. Leave and go somewhere you feel safe.
Know who to call in an emergency: 999 for immediate danger, 111 for medical advice, youth helplines for support.
This situation is temporary. You have the potential to achieve amazing things. Here's how to start building your future:
- Emma, 19, supported by Centrepoint and local youth services
- James, 18, now working in IT
- Aisha, 20, care leaver who rebuilt her life
Your success story could be next. 💪
Whether you need help or want to support young people in Peterborough