There has been a reduction in the number of young people contacting the charity Housing Matters.

A review of statistics for 2019/2020 showed a further cut in young people getting in touch with the charity.

Since the Peer Education Programme was launched in 2017, Housing Matters has seen an overall reduction of 32% in under 21s approaching it for advice, housing or other support.

myths

The programme was launched with the aim to ’dispel myths about homelessness’ and educate young people about living without secure and permanent accommodation.

Housing Matters peer education coordinator Katie Farrall said: ’Through the Peer Education Programme and using anonymised stories of their peers who have struggled with homelessness, it is hoped that in recognising the issues they may face, younger people can make informed decisions about leaving home in a controlled and supported way.

’We hope that the reduction in younger people contacting the charity is a direct result of this.

’In addition, we also offer a tenancy training programme to help anyone who has not had a tenancy before, or have been unsuccessful in a tenancy.

’The training explains their rights, but also their responsibilities as a tenant.

’If they are able to sustain a tenancy by being a responsible tenant, this would also lead to a reduction in younger people contacting us for help.’

Homelessness was highlighted to more than 1,200 island schoolchildren in the 2019/20 academic year, with the charity delivering nine information sessions in primary and secondary schools across the Isle of Man, despite Covid-19 cutting the programme short.

The sessions included a presentation from guest speaker ’Joanne’, a former service user who was homeless as a teenager.

Mrs Farrall added: ’Similar to previous years, we have found that students of all ages are aware of homelessness as an issue.

’The young people showed particular interest in Joanne’s experience as a homeless teenager and despite her story being a difficult one to tell, she answered all questions openly and honestly.

focus

’In the question and answer sessions, we are hearing more of "I know someone who...", compared to previous years where most of the focus was on what the students had seen on visits to the UK.

’This is positive and shows young people are becoming more aware of hidden homeless and the term "sofa surfing", which is unfortunately very common in the island.’

The programme was launched in 2017 after homebuilder Dandara provided a five-year funding package to help the charity deliver the project.

It continues to receive referrals from schools and colleges who have referred students in housing crisis for support.

Dandara marketing director Jo Orton added: ’Housing Matters’ Peer Education Programme has proved itself as invaluable over the past three years, and continues to go from strength-to-strength.

’It is equipping young people with vital knowledge and insight which they can use to make informed choices should they find themselves in any difficult circumstances, and where to access support.’

Housing Matters has several sessions organised for the autumn term. The Peer Education Programme is being offered to any school or organisation which works with young people.