Entitled 'Before the cracks appear - supporting families to prevent homelessness', the conference outlined new approaches of addressing the underlying causes of homelessness to try and prevent a situation where a young person would ever need to leave home.

It formed part of the National Youth Homeless Scheme programme, which originated in the government's commitment to tackle and prevent youth homelessness announced by Ruth Kelly MP in November 2006.

A report from the conference - Before the cracks appear - towards independence, not homelessness is available here.

The conference had two main themes:

Young people’s involvement

Young people housed by CAYSH were heavily involved in all aspects of the conference.They manned the registration stands, coordinated the workshops, met with speakers and delegates and hosted the event. They also gave their perspective on youth homelessness through a DVD they had made, and which was shown during the event. 

Research and good practice

The outcomes of research made by CAYSH in partnership with YMCA England on developing family approaches to preventing homelessness was launched. A Floating Family Support Pilot by CAYSH was also highlighted, outlining the journey to developing a local early intervention parent support sevice. A range of interactive workshops highlighted good practice.