Youth homelessness in austerity Britain: “We can’t help you, you need to go back home”

The growth of homelessness in the UK has been attributed to government led economic reform, beginning with the election of David Cameron in 2010, who promised to significantly reduce the UK’s welfare bill. We argue that these welfare reforms have adversely affected vulnerable young people and placed key services beyond their reach. This paper shares data collected from young people aged 16–21 living in a homeless hostel in England and seeks to challenge notions of responsibilization, which hold young people accountable for the circumstances in which they become encased. Participants reported that although homelessness was precipitated by violence and abuse at home, local authorities sought parental consent before making provision available. Young people described being refused help and advised to “go home” when they reported themselves as being homeless. Despite feeling safe and well supported in the hostel, residents were aware that hostel support was temporary and described feeling worried about their future. Our research highlights the limited nature of services and concludes that vulnerable young people, without family support, are especially disadvantaged by their circumstances.