Celebrating 100 years of Northlands Salvation Army, Cardiff

Northlands Lifehouse in Cardiff opened its doors to councillors and other members of the community to mark the centenary of the opening of the building.

Originally a woman and baby centre back in 1922, it is now the home of almost 30 young people aged 16 – 21 who are facing homelessness in Cardiff.

Young people are referred to the Lifehouse via the Young Persons Gateway, which is coordinated by Cardiff Council. It provides accommodation for young people experiencing homelessness and has 26 rooms with two emergency rooms.

Lifehouse Service Manager Laura Carey says: “We work creatively and empathetically to understand the needs of the young people we support. We help young people to identify their goals, develop their skills and work towards independent living.”

She added: “Supporting young people can present many challenges. Over the course of the pandemic, we have seen an increase in young people experiencing mental health difficulties, domestic violence, exploitation and connections with County lines. The pandemic also caused challenges for young people living in difficult family circumstances.”

Since the start of the Young Persons Contract in May 2019, 95% of the young people who have been supported at Northlands Lifehouse have moved on in a positive way. A hundred per cent of those who have left Northlands have lived independently in the community for more than a year and 12 months.

Laura says: “All our Lifehouse’s and contract partners work towards a zero-eviction policy. Whatever happens, we always strive to help a young person to remain safely in their accommodation.”