The Albert Kennedy Trust (akt), the UK’s only LGBTQ+ youth homelessness charity, is conducting the youth homelessness study in collaboration with the Universities of Kent, Bristol, and Southampton.
The findings, expected to be analysed between September and October 2024, will influence policymakers and key decision-makers. akt want to encourage participation in the survey, which is crucial for gathering comprehensive data.
This crucial study will investigate the scale, causes, and experiences of LGBTQ+ youth homelessness across the UK. This research is essential because of the growing concerns surrounding the housing crisis and its impact on young people, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.
The study will run until September 2024, and data analysis will occur between September and October 2024. The research team’s findings will influence policymakers and decision-makers at various levels.
“We’re committed to understanding the root causes and consequences of LGBTQ+ youth homelessness,” said Amy Heritage, Director of Marketing and Fundraising at akt. “This study will help us identify best practices and craft more effective interventions to ensure that vulnerable young people are given the support they need.”
Dr Carin Tunåker, who is leading the research at Kent Law School (University of Kent), told QX, “LGBTQ+ youth homelessness is a growing concern in the UK, but we lack data and information that could help towards making lives better for some of the most vulnerable in society.
“This is an issue that we need the government and policymakers to take seriously, and the more participants we have for our research, the more we can influence high-level decision-making and make positive changes to LGBTQ+ young peoples’ lives.”
What can I do to help the study?
If you are aged 16-25, you can participate in the survey, regardless of your personal experiences with homelessness or sexual orientation.
There’s a chance to win a £100 voucher
Participants will be entered into a prize draw to win a £100 voucher.
How long does the online survey take?
The survey, which is expected to take approximately 15 minutes to complete, offers young people an opportunity to have their voices heard on this critical issue.
Housing or homelessness professionals working in the sector are also invited to complete the survey, so we can inform service delivery based on their responses.
Why this Youth Homelessness Survey matters
LGBTQ+ youth are disproportionately affected by homelessness, often due to family rejection, discrimination, and a lack of targeted support services. By participating in this study, individuals can play a role in addressing these disparities and helping to create a safer and more inclusive society for all.
I want to participate, and what do I need to do?
- To participate in the survey or to learn more about the study, please visit https://www.akt.org.uk/news/new-lgbtq-youth-homelessness-research-study/.
- For 16 – 25-year-olds, please fill out the survey here.
- For housing and homelessness professionals, please fill out the survey here.
About the Albert Kennedy Trust (akt)
akt is the UK’s leading LGBTQ+ youth homelessness charity, dedicated to ensuring that no young person becomes homeless, or experiences abuse just for being who they are. For more information, visit akt.org.uk.
