At least one in six of those sleeping
rough on the streets of London tonight are under the age of 25.
Mostly they are victims of unstable childhoods, neglect, poverty
and abuse, or of war and poverty overseas. All are isolated,
excluded, rejected, stigmatised and victimised.
Homeless people have had heavily disrupted lives, with their
problems often starting in childhood. They may have spent time
in institutions of one sort or another or have mental health
problems. Many have turned to drink and drugs to ease the pain.
Most do not have families or friends to turn to and lack the
skills to make lasting relationships.
Founded in 1986 by Cardinal Hume, the Centre is an enabling
charity, providing foundations from which homeless and socially
excluded people are able to start addressing some of the issues,
developing skills and confidence, and rebuilding their lives so
that they, themselves can take the steps necessary to escape the
chaos and despair of homelessness.
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