hyh - independent homeless charity in hertfordshire

hyh is a unique charity in Hertfordshire providing services to support vulnerable people.

Our focus is on preventing homelessness - from education in schools and family mediation through to supporting 16-24 year olds in their first homes or caring for adults of all ages who have mental health issues and housing needs.

Our FREE services empower young people to be able to deal with the difficult situations in their lives, give them the ability and confidence to ‘do it themselves’ and ultimately find stability.

Jo's Story

Jo was referred to hyh by a concerned housing officer because she and her baby daughter were facing eviction from their flat for rent arrears.

At the first meeting with a hyh support worker, Jo told how she had come home from work to find her partner dead from a heroin overdose.

He had controlled all their finances and spent the rent money on his drug habit, leaving Jo with thousands of pounds of debt.

Jo had spent the next few months in a serious depression unable to face up to the realities of her situation.

hyh applied to the court to halt the eviction proceedings and Jo was given six weeks to pay off some of her rent arrears and prove she was committed to keeping her tenancy.

This was the reality check Jo needed and she finally faced up to her financial problems. hyh helped Jo work out a repayment plan with her creditors and created spreadsheet which enabled her to keep track of the payments.

Over time, Jo’s mental health began to improve. The support she received from hyh played a vital role in her getting back on her feet.

Regular and consistent support has enabled Jo to stay in employment and make considerable repayments on her debts. She manages her finances well and has done a fantastic job re-decorating the flat to give her and her daughter a fresh start.

How you can make a difference