Streetlife provides support and shelter to vulnerable and often homeless young people aged 16-25 in Blackpool. Many of these young people experience multiple disadvantage such as domestic abuse, addictions, adverse childhood experiences, criminal activity, as well as homelessness. These factors undermine wellbeing, resilience, opportunities and hope for the future.

The “Health Minds” project offers structured and holistic programme of positive activities which are based on the NHS’ “5 steps to mental well-being’’ afternoon drop-in sessions aimed at building resilience, developing skills, accessing accommodation, education and employment. Themes include Connecting with people; Physical activity; Learning new skills; Giving to others and Paying attention to the present.

This two-year grant funds a qualified youth worker to coordinate and maintain an effective structure to the daily drop-in sessions, building a routine that is understood and familiar to the young people and to staff. Throughout the year, young people can drop in to activities, benefit from one-to-one mentoring support and access a range of support to help with housing, emotional and practical needs. This cohort of young people can be difficult to engage on a regular basis, but the dedicated team at Streetlife works hard to build consistency and trust.