Nuneaton-based charity sees rise in demand from young homeless people

Youth homelessness in the UK is a growing crisis. It is estimated that almost 136,000 young people sought help from local councils in 2022/23 due to homelessness – a 5% increase from the previous year.

Concerns about rising figures have been echoed by charities nationwide, including the Nuneaton-based charity Doorway, which has seen an 8% rise in referrals. These figures have outpaced the national average.

The charity has launched a Christmas campaign […] backed by the Aviva Community Fund

Doorway is a Warwickshire-based charity dedicated to supporting young people aged 16–25 who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. In 2022, their Advice Service received 376 referrals, with 56% of these being self-referrals. The charity provides practical support, including assistance with education, employment opportunities, temporary housing, counselling, and life skills training. These services have been designed to equip young people with the tools they need to rebuild their lives and achieve independence.

Carol Gallagher, Chief Executive at Doorway, has said a “staggering” 52% of referrals made to the charity for help have been from outside of Warwickshire.

In response to increasing demand, the charity has launched a Christmas campaign to raise funds for its advice services and supported accommodation. The winter appeal has been backed by the Aviva Community Fund.

Without the help of Doorway and support, I and many other young people would not have access to a decent life

Lucy, one youth supported by Doorway

Youth homelessness has been driven by numerous factors: family breakdowns, leaving care, mental health struggles, economic pressures, and more. These issues leave already vulnerable people more exposed to harm, increasing their risk of exploitation, poor mental health, and long-term instability.

Despite these challenges, Doorway’s impact has been profound. Nine out of ten young people they support go on to live successful independent lives. Lucy, one youth supported by Doorway, said: “I am so grateful for the brave work that Doorway continues to do. Without the help of Doorway and support, I and many other young people would not have access to a decent life.”

On its website, Doorway shares ways to support its mission to tackle youth homelessness. These include donating essentials, fundraising, and volunteering to support the charity’s events.

The charity is asking the public to join its mission and help make a difference by supporting the winter appeal.