At Brandon Centre, we understand that young people experiencing homelessness face a unique and complex set of challenges. These can include domestic violence, mental health issues, emotional and sexual abuse, family breakdown, substance misuse, immigration issues, and struggles with sexuality or gender identity. Homelessness significantly increases the risk of mental health difficulties, including depression and suicidal ideation, and many young people face barriers when trying to access support.
In response to these urgent needs, Brandon Centre established a Homeless Outreach Support service to bring mental health care directly to young people who need it most. Funded initially by Islington Giving as a pilot project and now supported for an additional three years by Comic Relief, this outreach programme offers tailored support to young people (aged 16-25) experiencing homelessness in Islington.
We provide a holistic, trauma-informed service embedded directly within two key homeless hostels in Islington—YMCA LandAid House and Depaul London Youth Hub.
Our therapist works onsite at the hostels offering one-off, brief and long-term therapy sessions for residents, addressing issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, family breakdowns, etc. This helps break down some of the barriers typically faced by homeless young people accessing services. Our holistic support goes beyond therapy, including funding activities and resources to boost wellbeing such as hostel trips and art supplies to help build positive experiences.
In addition to direct work with young people, we also provide ongoing consultation and support for hostel staff. This includes case reviews, trauma-informed training, crisis intervention strategies and a reflective space for staff.
By offering support to both residents and staff, we aim to build a sustainable, supportive environment within the hostels, helping staff feel empowered in their work while ensuring young people receive the care they need.
At Brandon Centre, we are dedicated to ensuring that no young person is left behind when it comes to accessing the mental health support they need, regardless of their housing situation.
If you’re interested in learning more about our homeless outreach services, please contact counselling@brandoncentre.org.uk or 020 7267 4792
