homeless: it hurts to hear

With homelessness remaining a major issue for our young people (YP), we’re renewing our appeal for rooms and properties to rent. Frankly, the situation has become desperate.

As care leavers and refugees, these YP are disproportionately impacted by the UK’s housing crisis. And while they have eligibility to rent and would make excellent and responsible tenants, too many are struggling to find somewhere to live. Street homelessness and sofa surfing are common in too many young lives.

KRAN housing caseworker Red says: “I have many open cases of homeless refugees and it is becoming increasingly hard to support them. They are often ineligible for emergency council housing support and are given a low banding on the housing register. This means that they could be waiting upwards of five years to be able to successfully bid on a council house, if it is possible at all.

“They are stuck in a cycle of homelessness after they have been granted refuge in the country and they have left care.”

Samir*, who is being supported by KRAN, says: “No one wants to be homeless. And it is not a choice, as some of the government says. [Homeless] it’s not just a word. It hurts to hear it more than live it. And it’s bad when you are homeless and you feel shame to say so because you are afraid of others judgement”

We can provide anyone with a room (or more) to rent in Kent with introductions to prospective tenants. KRAN will offer ongoing casework services so they understand their commitments and act as a point of contact for both landlords and the tenant. 

Red adds: “Landlords would not only be providing these young people with a safe place to call home, but also offering them the breathing space to rebuild their lives as refugees in the UK.

“Your support can make a significant difference in alleviating the strain of the housing crisis in Kent and in creating a more inclusive and compassionate community in the private rental sector.”

If you can help, please email: red@kran.org.uk. Red will also be able to answer any questions you may have. 

Our appeal in October 2023 resulted in one young person finding an affordable renting arrangement with a landlord. 

*Not his real name.