The start of April means bills are going up. What’s that going to mean for the financially vulnerable young people who turn to Youth Concern? On average:
Water bills ⬆️ £120 per year
Energy bills ⬆️ £111 per year
Council tax ⬆️ 3-5%
Broadband, phone, TV licence ⬆️ c £200 per year
Car tax ⬆️ £195 per year
Stamp duty for first-time buyers on £300k+ homes (not £425k as before)
And the stealth tax: a freeze on tax thresholds on income tax and National Insurance until 2028 – more people will pay higher rates of tax as wages rise.
At Youth Concern’s Next Step Project, we provide 18 months’ accommodation and tailored advice to previously homeless 18-25 year olds, helping them learn to live independently. After they move out, usually into private rental or social housing, we offer 6 months’ formal support, helping them adjust to bills, contracts, budgeting and ongoing support through our Drop-in Centre until their 25th birthday.
Think back to your first home. The excitement! But all those pressures and unknowns too. For many of us, our parents supported us as we transitioned into independent adults. Youth Concern is here for those who can’t rely on mum or dad.
Please signpost young people with a connection to Aylesbury Vale to our services. We’re here to listen to and respond to local 13-25 year olds when they need us most.
