A giant mural which signposts helplines for young people has been officially unveiled at the Buszy Plaza Skatepark this week.
The 14-metre-wide graphic, a collaboration between members of MK’s Youth Cabinet (YCAB) and artist Kremena Dimitrova, uses poetry and words from young people, taking inspiration from those who are homeless, to create the design.
The mural contains phone numbers for local support services on offer to local people who need extra help, including young people at risk of homelessness who could benefit from mediation and advice, and is embedded with poetry, puzzles, and thoughts.
In 2020, following a consultation with more than 4,000 young people, MK’s YCAB identified youth homelessness and domestic abuse as issues to focus on.
Councillor Emily Darlington, Cabinet Member for Adults, Housing and Healthy Communities commented: "In the UK, homelessness and domestic abuse affect hundreds of thousands of young people each year.
"We’ve done a huge amount to bring down local levels of homelessness but the conditions that lead young people to becoming homeless are complex – and many are unsure where to turn. This project has been driven by the passion of young people and the support of local organisations who can make a difference. We want people to know that help is available.”
Alessandro and Crystal Rose, MKYCAB Homelessness campaign group said: "This was the second most voted project in 2020/21 which is why we created the mural with our artist, Kremena, in the hope of educating and supporting people about homelessness. We want to portray a ray of hope for anyone who is going through a similar situation as well as creating a positive message to the wider community.”
