Final call to join St Basils Hike for Homeless
With youth homelessness rising and hundreds of young people across the West Midlands facing an uncertain future, St Basils is urging walkers to lace up their boots and take part in its Hike for Homeless challenge later this month.
Taking place on Saturday 20 June in the surroundings of Kinver Edge and Wyre Forest, the charity's flagship fundraising event offers participants the chance to enjoy some of the Midlands' most stunning countryside while helping vulnerable young people find safety, stability and hope.
The appeal comes at a time when youth homelessness is reaching alarming levels.
Latest figures estimate that 123,934 young people aged 16 to 24 were homeless or at risk of homelessness in the UK in 2024/25 – the equivalent of one young person every four minutes.
Yet charities warn the true scale of the crisis is likely to be far greater.
Many young people experiencing homelessness are hidden from view. They may be sleeping on friends' sofas, moving between temporary arrangements, staying in unsafe situations or even sleeping in their cars.
Some are in full-time employment but are unable to afford a place of their own because of soaring rents and a severe shortage of affordable housing.
Across the West Midlands, St Basils sees the reality behind these statistics every day.
The charity supports young people aged 16 to 25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, helping them find and keep a home, gain vital life skills, access education, training and employment, and build brighter futures.
Through affordable accommodation projects across the region, St Basils is also helping working young people access safe, affordable housing at a time when many are being priced out of the private rental market.
Every pound raised through Hike for Homeless will help St Basils continue this vital work.
Participants can choose from a range of walking routes through the breathtaking landscapes of Kinver Edge and Wyre Forest, taking in ancient woodland, panoramic views and some of the region's most beautiful countryside.
Whether walking with friends, family, colleagues or on your own, the event promises a memorable day of challenge, achievement and community spirit.
Barrie Hodge, head of fundraising and communications at St Basils, said: “Every four minutes a young person in the UK becomes homeless or is at risk of homelessness. Behind those figures are real young people whose lives have been turned upside down through no fault of their own.
“Many are hidden homeless, sleeping on sofas, staying in unsuitable accommodation or even living in their cars while trying to hold down jobs and build their futures. That's why events like Hike for Homeless are so important.
“As well as enjoying an incredible day out in one of the most beautiful parts of the Midlands, every participant will be helping young people access the support, accommodation and opportunities they need to move forward with their lives.”
