Project tackling youth homelessness launched
Released: 25 October 2007
A service aimed at helping prevent young people from becoming homeless has been launched.
Mike Yates, chair of the Wolverhampton Young Persons Accommodation Forum, unveiled the new scheme this week, saying it could "change the lives of young people at risk".
Wolverhampton City Council has commissioned Relate, the national counselling service, to offer mediation to young people in crisis.
By offering early intervention to people aged from 16-25 who are experiencing difficulties at home, the city council hopes to stop them becoming homeless.
Mike said the scheme was a "massive step forward" in the fight against youth homelessness: "We are all very excited about this new service and feel that the lives of many troubled young people could be improved immeasurably.
"Family problems are a major cause of homeless amongst young people. If we can help families to stay together, then we will have made a significant breakthrough", he added.
Young people in need of support and advice can receive it from Relate through the Wolverhampton Young Persons Accommodation Forum, set up to help young people aged 16-25 who are at risk of homelessness.
The panel meets every fortnight and referrals can be made via the Young Persons Team based in the city council’s Civic Centre headquarters or at any of the hostels or foyers across the city.
Anyone wanting more information about the service can call the Young Persons Team on 01902 551023.
Issued by the press office.
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