Routes Out 2026: The National Youth Homelessness Conference

Centrepoint is proud to host the eighth National Youth Homelessness Conference, bringing together sector leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and young people with lived experience to explore the critical pathways that support young people in moving on from homelessness and into independence.

This year’s theme, “Routes Out of Homelessness,” will spotlight innovative models and bold ideas shaping the future of youth homelessness support.

Speakers include:

• Vicky Spratt, Columnist and Correspondent for The i Paper, Author and Radio 4 Presenter
• Seyi Obakin, OBE, CEO, Centrepoint
• Liz Laurence, Strategic Initiatives Director, Homewards
• Alicia Walker, Assistant Director of Activism and Advocacy, Shelter
• Sally Orlopp, Director of People, Property and Independent Living, Centrepoint
• Jane Scott, Transformation Lead, London Borough of Croydon Children, Families and Education Department
• Ben Cohen, Director, Good Innovation
• Sam Dumitriu, Head of Policy, Britain Remade
• Simon Green, CEO, YMCA Milton Keynes
• Samara Jones, Housing First Europe Hubs Lead, FEANTSA/ Housing First Europe
• Laura Rutter, Service Manager - Rent Deposit Scheme, Centrepoint
• Paul Morrish, Chief Executive, LandAid
• Mark Fox, Director of Strategic Accounts, Portakabin Limited
• Rob Saggs, Chief Executive Officer, CHESS Homeless
• James Muller, Managing Director, Safe Haven London
• Simon Fowler, Director, Planning, Iceni
• Kelvin Anderson, Head of Talent and Regional Development, Movement to Work

Topics include:

• Powerful insights from Lived Experience Experts
• In conversation with Vicky Spratt, Hosted by Homewards

• Scaling Independence: From 300 to 30,000 Homes- How Stepping Stone Homes can Address the Affordable Housing Crisis for Young People
• Housing First for Youth Principles in Practice: International insights on routes out through housing solutions and community connections
• Building Homes: How Modular Solutions are Transforming Housing
• Unlocking Opportunities: How to Influence Employers to Recruit Marginalised Young People
• Supporting trans and non binary young people out of homelessness and into secure, thriving homes - while navigating the implications of the Supreme Court ruling
• Homes for the Future: Funding and Planning Panel
• From Pilots to Practice: Practical AI Lessons for the Sector
• Unlocking Homes: How Rent Deposit Schemes Open Doors for Young People
• Building Futures: Tenancy Sustainment and the Journey to Independence
• Live, Work and Move Forward: How to Provide Affordable Move On Accommodation for Working Young People
• Mini Hackathon: Reimagining How Young People Find Work

Whether you're a frontline worker, policymaker, or someone passionate about ending youth homelessness, this is your opportunity to connect, learn, and lead change.

Delegates will be sent further information to select their preferred workshops a few weeks ahead of the event.

🎟️ Spaces are limited – book now to secure your place!

Centrepoint Partnering members:

Centrepoint Partnering Network members receive 2 free spaces for this event* Please enter your promotional code when booking.

For ticket amendments and Network membership enquiries please contact: centrepointpartnering@centrepoint.org

Refreshments:

A light lunch will be provided. Teas, coffees, water and snacks will also be provided throughout the day.

Directions to venue:

Situated in the heart of the UK the Coventry Building Society Arena is within a two-hour drive of 75% of the population. With three train stations within 8 miles, Birmingham International Airport only a 20 minute drive away, and London Euston 55 minutes by train. The Arena also has its own on-site railway station 'Coventry Arena Train Station'.

If you're travelling by car, Coventry Building Society Arena is just 800 yards from Junction 3 of the M6 and within easy distance of the M1 and M40.

Parking will be free for the conference. You will be sent a link to book your car in the carpark in your confirmation email.

For more details on travel please click here - https://www.coventrybuildingsocietyarena.co.uk/visiting-us/getting-here/

Click here to see the benefits of Coming Together to End Youth Homelessness.

Data Protection

Before you register for this conference, please read our supporters privacy notice. If you'd prefer not to hear from us, or would like to change your contact preferences, let us know by emailing dataprotection@centrepoint.org; Your details are safe with us.

*Agenda maybe subject to change.

* Network member tickets are available for a limited time and subject to availability.