Freya’s Story: Homelessness at 16
Freya never imagined becoming homeless at the age of 16. Now living independently, she reflects on that difficult period, saying she did not think she would survive it.
Recent data from the charity Centrepoint estimates that in 2024-25, over 120,000 young people across the UK were classified as homeless or at risk of homelessness. This marks the third consecutive year of rising numbers.
At 11 years old, Freya was diagnosed with GPA vasculitis, a rare autoimmune disease, which required extended hospital stays. When she was 16, after another hospital admission, she was unable to return home due to family circumstances.
She was discharged to a bed and breakfast on the seafront in Rhyl, where she described her room as having "just fell apart."
"They're not places to put young people at all. They're not places to put anyone,"
Shortly after, Freya was readmitted to hospital. This time, she was referred to Kickstart, a service providing 24-hour support for young people at risk of homelessness.
"I could then start working and actually moving forward. I got my A-Levels in art,"
Freya, now 19, has since moved into her own flat with assistance from Clwydalyn, a housing association in north Wales that offers supported housing for vulnerable individuals.
"If you need anything there's support."
Reflecting on her past, Freya said she did not believe she would survive that time.
"I didn't even think I'd be alive anymore to be quite honest. I'd had enough."
Currently, she describes her life as very different.
"I'm working, I'm doing my driving, and I'm doing loads of different art projects."
Freya expressed concern that many young people do not receive adequate support and are placed in unsuitable accommodation lacking basic facilities or a support network.
Conner’s Experience: From Care to Homelessness
Conner entered care as a child and lived in foster homes across north Wales until he turned 18. Upon leaving care, he found himself uncertain about his future and became homeless.
He spent time sleeping rough in Stoke-on-Trent, where he said his "survival instincts" activated.
Determined to return to Wales, where he was raised, Conner, with help from a family friend, moved to Rhyl. There, he was directed to Clwydalyn and now resides in supported living accommodation.
"If it wasn't for people who didn't give up on me I wouldn't be here, so I am grateful for everyone who helped me in my life get to where I am today."
Rising Demand and Legislative Response
Llamau, a homelessness charity, has reported a significant increase in demand for its services.
In March, the Homelessness and Social Housing Allocation (Wales) Bill was enacted. The bill emphasizes preventing homelessness, a development welcomed by Llamau’s chief executive, Sam Austin.
"We need to address the root causes much earlier. Around 50% of the adult street homeless population first experienced homelessness before the age of 21,"
"If we can make an impact on youth homelessness, that will have a generational effect on homelessness overall."
Despite the difficulties faced, Sam Austin noted that those seeking assistance have straightforward aspirations.
"What they want is the same as everybody else. Somewhere safe to live, a good job, and a happy, healthy relationship."
Welsh Government’s Commitment
The Welsh government stated it will soon outline its priorities on homelessness, emphasizing a focus on what is best for Wales.
Additional reporting by Gareth Bryer.
