1625 Independent People
Cost of Living Fund
Help young people in Bristol and the South West access positive social opportunities, improve their wellbeing and thrive as independent adults.
Story
1625 Independent People has supported young homeless people in Bristol and the wider south west for over 40 years. We are now the largest youth homelessness charity in the region, supporting well over 1,600 young people every year.
The Cost of Living crisis has pushed many young people into energy, food and housing insecurity. For those living on the poverty line, homelessness can be just one unexpected bill away. In Bristol, young people face the highest private rental costs outside of London. Under 25s face lower entitlements to Universal Credit and higher chances of being employed on a zero hours contract. Financial pressures have a devastating impact on young people's mental health, leading to isolation and disengagement from social networks and key support services.
Our charity provides young people with the support they need to find routes into education, training and employment, build strong social networks and improve their mental and physical health. Our team of specialist support workers help young people build their financial literacy and money management skills ensuring they can tackle the cost of living crisis, lift themselves out of homelessness and thrive as independent adults.
With 1625 I just feel like I belong somewhere, and I’ve got support from people who really want to help me. Their groups and activities take me away from the horrible stuff for a bit and they let me be me.
By donating to 1625 Independent People, you will help our young people access positive social opportunities, improve their wellbeing and overcome barriers to achieving economic independence.
You can help us make a difference to young people like Saskia and Chloe who recently opened up about their experiences in a special feature on ITV. You can view their stories at the links below:
https://www.itv.com/news/westcountry/2024-12-10/i-work-endlessly-and-get-nowhere-sometimes-i-cant-afford-to-shower
How your donations can make a difference:
£6: Could provide a vital lifeline for a young person, a day bus pass, helping them to overcome isolation and access essential services such as college, job interviews, or social trips. Alternatively, it could provide a simple coffee and snack, a moment of comfort amidst the challenges they face.
£10: Could buy an activity pack for a child living with their parent in 1625 accommodation.
£15: Could supply ingredients for a cooking session for 5 young people, teaching crucial life skills and promoting overall well-being by empowering them to prepare nutritious meals on a budget.
£50: Could buy a new winter coat for a young person to stay warm in the colder months.
£100: Could go towards supporting a young person's health and well-being with a 5-month gym membership, offering access to physical activities that positively impact their mental health.