We’re pleased to share a feature that we have been involved with alongside Blackpool Gazette, covering the wide variety of services that we offer in our Blackpool locations.
Unfortunately, the article highlights the significant increase we have had in people needing to use our services. In 2024, we found ourselves at 90% occupancy, compared to just 75% the year before. This is a huge increase.
In 2024, there were nights when as many as 12 young people presented at the night shelter and we only have eight beds. As a charity that works hard every day, this was extremely difficult. There is very little support for young, homeless people who have nowhere to turn.
Grants and support
The economic climate has been a worry for many of us. As a charity, we rely on grants and fundraising from our local community. Unfortunately, in March, £240,000 of annual grants will end, which is going to have a huge impact on what we can offer and the lives of so many young people living in Blackpool.
What do we offer at Streetlife?
Streetlife is a charity that has been around for 40 years. In those 40 years, we have supported an incredible number of young people who have unfortunately found themselves homeless. We provide support in a number of ways, as we recognise that each individual requires different levels of support.
The Night Shelter
The Night Shelter offers a comfortable place for eight individuals to sleep. Each guest has access to their own lockable bedroom, shared kitchen and bathroom. When staying here, guests have access to all of the toiletries they require and can have a healthy, warm meal.
The Base
The Base is our day centre, which provides a place for young people to relax, stay warm, make friends, seek support and learn new skills. We are extremely proud to offer these services and be able to support so many young people. Our services are available to those aged between 16 and 25.
How can you help
As we mentioned previously, we receive a lot of support from our amazing local community, whether through fundraising, events, or other means.
Every year, we hold the Big SleepOut, an event where members of the public are invited to sleep outside of our night shelter. This event helps us raise money and awareness and provides a small snapshot of what life can be like for many young people in the area.
This year’s SleepOut is our 10th-anniversary event, which means it will be bigger and better than ever.
The Big SleepOut sponsored by Beaverbrooks the Jewellers will be taking place on Friday 4th April 2025. We’d love to welcome you along!
You can find out more about the event here.
Once again, we’d like to express our gratitude to all the individuals and organisations that support us throughout the year. Your support goes a long way in the lives of many young people in our community. Read the article here.