Supporting young homeless people to achieve independence
The Leonard Leese team are helping raise awareness of Depaul UK by fundraising through sponsored events, helping achieve independence with work experience programs and donating a portion of annual profits.
Depaul UK and Leonard Leese believe that every young person deserves a home and a stake in their community which is why they work to provide the stability and support needed for these young people to progress beyond homelessness.
This charity is very close to our hearts. Working in the city we see the many homeless taking shelter on the streets on a daily basis, however it’s also the one’s that are not so visible that we would like to promote awareness of – the ‘hidden’ homeless. It can happen to any one of us due to a change of circumstances; a friend, a colleague or even a family member may be hiding this by ‘sofa-surfing’ or staying late in the office.
Fundraising at Leonard Leese!
The Leonard Leese team have fundraised over the years by doing some fab voluntary activities such as bake sales, pub quizzes and even running marathons- nice one Toby and Mark!
It’s important to the the team at Leonard Leese that everyone gets involved, including our founder, Mark Leese; who took on the challenge of the Depaul CEO sleep out.
Homelessness doesn’t just effect targeted city areas, it can affect anyone, anywhere. A friend at Leonard Leese who also did a Sleep Out in her local area found it an eye opening experience, she said: “I had mixed emotions- the feeling that people do this day in day out really struck me. I certainly feel different about homelessness. I think supporting these charities is the way forward though, a long term solution”
As an independent estate agent in Borough and close to the Depaul offices we wanted to join forces to raise as much money for this amazing cause!
Most recently, we raised £3000 in our Just Let To Donate campaign where for every let property we have donated £50 to Depaul UK. Read our blog to learn more about this pledge here>> http://bit.ly/LET2DONATE
About
Depaul UK is a youth homelessness charity providing housing and support to those aged 16-25 who find themselves in crisis.
They work with some of the most disadvantaged and isolated young people in the UK, specialising in communities where poverty and long-term unemployment have resulted in generations of social exclusion and high rates of homelessness. Many have experienced rough sleeping and come from extremely challenging circumstances.
Myths about homelessness
The perceptions of homelessness are often very different from the reality, here we aim to correct some homelessness myths –
Myth: “Most homeless people are older adults.”
Fact: Half of all homeless people first become homeless before the age of 21. By supporting young homeless people, Depaul not only helps the most vulnerable individuals but we also prevent the cycle of homelessness from continuing.
Myth: “Most homeless people sleep on the street in plain sight.”
Fact: “Hidden homelessness” affects around 400,000 people in the UK every year. This includes staying in hostels, squats and B&B’s but a large percentage, particularly of young homeless people, “Sofa Surf” – moving between friends/family/acquaintances when they can—read more about hidden homelessness here: https://uk.depaulcharity.org/danger-zones-and-stepping-stones
Myth: “The biggest cause of homelessness is drug and alcohol abuse.”
Fact: This is a common misconception. The biggest cause of homelessness is actually a breakdown in family relationships. This is particularly prevalent in the young homeless population Depaul supports.
Myth: “It’s easy to get help from the council and claim enough benefits to support yourself.”
Fact: Recent benefit cuts have caused a massive increase in homelessness and “sanctions” (for reasons such as having incorrect paperwork/missing an appointment) means that many young people receive no money for months on end. Cuts to housing benefit have had a dramatic impact on homelessness.
Real People, Real Stories
Behind every statistic there’s a real young person who faces issues with homelessness. These two true accounts by Michael and Frankie, show the great work and positive impact Depaul have had in their lives.
“When I was 20 I moved to a Depaul House in London. The social worker I had been working with wasn’t consistent or reliable, but my Depaul support worker has given me so much. If I didn’t have him I wouldn’t know what to do.”
Michael
“The staff at Depaul encouraged me to get involved with other activities…overtime I have gained confidence…I feel more settled. I am happier more often than before.”
Frankie
Get involved
Check out our tweets, facebook page and blog to see updates on how we’re doing with our fundraising.
We’d love to hear your suggestions on possible events, venues and feedback on your experiences. Why not get involved yourself and take part in the volunteer program, see the following link for more details http://uk.depaulcharity.org/get-involved