Z House is a new, innovative project, providing a youth night shelter, offering consistent short-term (up to 3 months) emergency accommodation and support for young people aged 18-25 who are experiencing a housing crisis, in central Bristol. Z House aims to help young people navigate the barriers they are facing, find longer term housing, and move on to fulfilled independent lives.
Who we can work with?
- Young people aged 18-25
- Currently experiencing homelessness, including hidden homelessness (such as people living in vehicles, sofa surfing, unsuitable/unsafe housing such as squats or ‘beds in shed’, or overcrowded conditions), at risk of homelessness or needing respite accommodation
- Will benefit from space and support to develop skills, knowledge, belief or energy to secure accommodation
- Actively looking to change their situation
- Has a connection to Bristol
- Are engaged with an agency who will continue to provide the primary support to enable the young person to achieve their housing goal.
Who we can’t work with?
- Young people who are unable to keep themselves and those around them safe
- Who don’t feel they need our service or haven’t actively consented to the referral
- Who don’t have a connection to Bristol
- Self-referrals or young people not currently engaged with Bristol Youth MAPS
Our offer
Z House’s four individual bedrooms are available to young people 8pm–8am with supplementary support 6pm–8pm and 8am-9am, provided by our team of skilled and experienced staff and volunteers. It offers a safe space with access to laundry, shower and cooking facilities and an informal shared space, as well as food, peer support and company. It also offers honest and realistic support, linking with other Caring in Bristol and external services as appropriate.
We place individuals we support at the centre of the service, ensuring that they are always involved in making decisions about their life. We focus on a person’s strengths, interests, resources, and capabilities, recognising the individual is the expert in knowing what they need and want.
For more information, please call 0117 924 4444 or email nightshelter@caringinbristol.org.uk
Visit our page for information on volunteering for Z House