Latest News.

Homeless project helps residents to University.

24/09/07

Two young people who were in danger of being left homeless but got back on their feet with the help of a pioneering social project are getting ready to start new lives at university. Just a year ago, Kim Collier, aged 19, and Tammy Coles, aged 18, would never have dreamed they would be going into further education. Serious family issues were threatening to leave them with a life on the streets.

Just a year ago, Kim Collier, aged 19, and Tammy Coles, aged 18, would never have dreamed they would be going into further education. Serious family issues were threatening to leave them with a life on the streets.

But after getting in touch with the West Mercia Housing Group's Herefordshire Supported Housing for Young People Project (SHYPP) both found the support, advice and domestic stability they needed to get their lives back on track. Now Kim is off to study psychology at Swansea University, while Tammy will study for her nursing qualifications at Worcester.

SHYPP has three supported housing projects - in Hereford, Ross and Leominster - known as Foyers. As well as offering accommodation for young people, the projects are equipped with IT and training facilities. Outreach programmes see workers helping young people to find secure accommodation, as well as supporting young parents. There is also the Nightstop project, which offers emergency overnight accommodation.

The scheme is aimed at young people, aged 16 to 25, who are in danger of homelessness, giving them support in looking for employment, encouraging training and boosting development skills.

Kim, who recently passed A-levels in psychology, sociology, travel and tourism, and general studies commented:

"I would not be going to university if it wasn't for SHYPP. It has been fantastic for me."

I was in danger of getting thrown out of home so was in contact with SHYPP and started getting outreach support last November. I was on a waiting list and was able to move in in January. Since then, my life has been fantastic.

They have given me so much support and have really helped me to take control of my life."

click here to return to news

| About RSS News Feeds

Keep updated with all the news and events in the housing sector, if you are unsure how to use our news reader please read the instructions.