Thousands of young people in Yorkshire at risk of homelessness this Christmas
Figures from charity Centrepoint suggest that one young person faces homelessness every four minutes
Last updated 20th Nov 2024
More than 1,600 young people are estimated to be facing homelessness this winter in Yorkshire and the Humber, according to new figures from a charity.
The research has been published by Centrepoint, a youth homelessness charity, also found that a young person faces homelessness every four minutes.
Doctor Helen Miles, Head of Psychologically Informed Environments (PIE) at Centrepoint said: “Experiencing homelessness at any age can have a huge and long-lasting impact on a person’s physical and mental health, but young people are particularly vulnerable.
“The trauma and instability of not having a safe home, family or network to turn to can severely affect a young person’s sense of physical and emotional safety."
The figures come at the same time as the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued a Cold Weather Health Alert covering Yorkshire.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said:
"This is the first amber Cold Weather Health Alert of the season, but we can expect more as we approach winter, and it is vital to check in on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours to ensure they are well prepared for the onset of cold weather.
"Particularly if they are elderly or otherwise at increased risk."
The Met Office also issued weather warnings snow and ice for parts of Yorkshire, which are due into force over the weekend.
It comes as some local councils are stepping up support for vulnerable people, to help them cope with the cold weather.