Push where it moves: Factors affecting engagement of homeless young people in employment, education and training, according to support staff

Aims The difficulties faced by homeless young people (HYP) are complex and overlapping, such as inadequate support networks, mental health issues and domestic abuse. It is therefore important to identify the specific circumstances informing HYP’s relationship with employment, education or training (EET). HYP are less likely to be EET than their housed peers and face significant barriers to engaging with EET (Dibb et al., 2019). Being not in employment education or training (NEET) significantly affects future employment, financial stability and health outcomes (Coles et al., 2010). This study aimed to develop an understanding of the barriers and facilitators, and their systemic impact on HYP accessing EET. Method Thematic analysis (TA; Braun & Clarke, 2006) was used to explore qualitative interviews with nine staff members working with HYP in supported accommodation provider Centrepoint. Findings The findings are organised into two broad themes: Motivation toward EET/NEET and Contextual Factors. Using Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Model (2005), Contextual Factors is separated into Individual, Microsystem and Exosystem Factors. Conclusions The findings are used to consider how professionals working with HYP might support them to move closer to engaging with EET. Tony Ryle’s phrase, push where it moves, is drawn upon – this key principle of Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) (Ryle & Kerr, 2001), suggests practitioners focus their therapeutic efforts in areas where their patients show potential for change or movement, rather than pushing against those areas where there is rigidity or resistance. Push where it moves is used to conceptualise the ways participants felt they might best encourage HYP towards EET.