The ALMT is working with Streetlife to support their emergency night shelter and day centre for homeless and vulnerable young people in Blackpool; one of the most deprived areas in Britain. Sadly, since the Government’s ‘Everybody In’ programme ended after the first phase of the pandemic, there has been a rise in youth homelessness locally and Covid restrictions have reduced the services available for young people.

Founded in 1982, Streetlife is experienced at providing emergency accommodation in their night shelter for those needing it most. This runs alongside their day centre which offers expert advice and support for vulnerable young people helping them to make informed choices about their lives. Many young people become homeless due to a breakdown in family relations and this is often a result of mental health issues. Once homeless, young people find it extremely difficult to get back on their feet and often become targets for criminal activity along county lines.

Due to covid restrictions, Streetlife has had to halve the number of beds in their night shelter and this is putting additional pressure on the services provided via the day centre. Other agencies are subject to the same restrictions. Streetlife’s day centre provides counselling, support planning, meaningful activities i.e. art groups, sports, DofE, cook and eat, informal education activities, creative writing etc. as well as practical support such as food, showers and clothing. They also provide tenancy advice for young people in private rented accommodation, outreach, food/toiletry parcels and signpost young people to sexual, mental health and substance use professionals where appropriate.

The ALMT funding will enable the day centre to continue to offer extended opening hours so that they can support young people through this difficult period.