The causes may be breakdown in child/parent relationship, no family support, wrong choices made in life or simply unemployment. The staff at the centre have seen so many cases that they are no longer shocked by anything, although they do find things upsetting.
The centre has 3 projects:
- Drop in centre open every week day. Where visitors can have some food, clean themselves up and seek confidential advice whatever the problem.
- Outreach service where staff will go and give help on a one-to-one basis with individuals, as they want it
- Private tenancy scheme which helps young people to rent a private property with some assistance.
With the Basement staff (l-r Marina, Lance and Elaine)
There are no simple solutions and government help on housing for the under 25 could be improved (they have lower financial support than those older than 25). Improving the educational opportunities for all young people will help more have the skills required to help them through life. Some of the projects work can be as simple as basic life skills, managing money to help with getting a job or further education.
Providing the safety net for those in need is vital, but so is the support to enable them to get out of their situation. Many of these young people are incredibly bright and have aspirations, and we need to ensure the opportunities are there for them.
All party’s could do more, but I am proud that education is at the heart of the Lib Dem’s key policies, especially the scrapping of tuition fees, which is a severe barrier to those with little income in even considering higher education. I will be seeking to understand how housing support for under 25s can be improved.
If you would like to know more about the Basement Project please visit their website or e-mail Elaine Mortimer: elaine@bromsgrovebasementproject.co.uk
With Alison, one of the volunteers at the centre
Philip Ling 