Share your story to support young people experiencing homelessness

In 2020, SpunOut.ie will be running a campaign which aims to support young people who are experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. We want to share the real-life experiences of people who are affected by the homeless crisis in Ireland, to help others know they are not alone in their experiences. We also want to shine a light on the housing crisis in Ireland and the impact it has on young people’s mental health.

We’re looking for young people (aged 16-25) across Ireland to add your voice to the campaign!

Get involved in the campaign

• Are you experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity? How is this impacting your mental and physical health?
• Share your opinions on the housing crisis in Ireland and how this impacts young people’s mental health
• What homeless or housing support services have you used that you’ve found helpful?
• What do you do to protect and support your mental health during difficult times?

We believe that young people across Ireland can help support each other by sharing stories, lived experiences, advice and opinions. If you’re between 16 and 25 years old and living in Ireland, we’d love to hear from you if you’re interested in writing an article or making a video.

Do I need writing experience?

You do not need any writing experience. We’ll help you out every step of the way giving you feedback and suggestions for your piece. Your piece will be posted on SpunOut.ie and our social media so that thousands of young people across Ireland will feel more supported and encouraged to seek help.

How do I get started?

If you’re interested in sharing your story, get in touch with [email protected]. 

Can my story be anonymous?

Yes. We can post your article anonymously without your name on it if you like.

What’s the campaign about?

Focus Ireland reported that there were 10,338 people homeless across Ireland in August 2019. Being homeless, trying to find emergency accommodation, managing hostile environments in hostels and experiences on the streets can negatively impact a person’s mental health. This campaign will aim to highlight the mental health difficulties experienced by young people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.

This campaign aims to show young people who are experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity that they are not alone, and that there are supports out there to help with their mental health. We will also focus on the self care methods that young people can use to help protect and strengthen their mental health during difficult times.

Throughout the campaign, we’ll be posting articles and videos with lots of information and personal stories from young people on our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat.