New campaign to tackle hidden homelessness in Wales

The Welsh government has launched a new campaign to help raise awareness of the hidden homelessness problem amongst young people in Wales. 

The campaign aims to raise awareness that just because someone has a roof over their head they may still be homeless, they might be sleeping on a friend’s sofa or staying somewhere temporary like a hostel, night shelter or a B&B.

They want all young people who may be at risk of becoming homeless to have access to the support that they need to prevent homelessness from happening in the first place.

The campaign identifies six signs that people can look for in order to identify someone who might be homeless.

1. They may be having difficulties with their relationships with their parents
2. They may be reluctant to go home
3. They may be keeping belongings with them and having problems with keeping clothes clean
4. They may be asking for help with money or using food banks
5. They may have lost their job
6. They may be experiencing physical or mental health problems.

Housing minister Julie James said: ‘Many people think homelessness is only about rough sleeping – it is not.

‘Many young people experiencing, or at risk of homelessness don’t recognise themselves as homeless.

‘We know young people often don’t know where to seek advice and support, so that’s why we’re launching this campaign.

Director of the homeless charity Shelter, Jon Puzey said: ‘We know the earlier and more often someone experiences homelessness, the more likely they are to develop complex issues that might mean they become homeless repeatedly throughout their adult life.

‘That’s why it’s so important that we make it a priority to prevent youth homelessness.

‘It’s fantastic that the Welsh Government is taking this so seriously and helping us to reach more young people.

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