Homewards launches NEON to strengthen routes into employment for care‑experienced young people in Northern Ireland

Homewards has launched NEON – the New Employment Opportunities Network – a new initiative bringing together major employers, local business and frontline partners to open up job opportunities for people who have experienced, or are at risk of, homelessness. NEON is employer-led, locally-chaired and designed to help employers unlock talent, strengthen retention and prevent homelessness at the same time.

Building momentum in Northern Ireland:

NEON began just before Christmas with a small group of committed employers united by a determination to make a difference. This week marked an important next step as Homewards convened a wider group of employers, partners and young people in Northern Ireland to build momentum and encourage more organisations to join the network.

Across the UK, it is estimated that 25% of those experiencing homelessness have been in care, and that one third of those leaving care will experience homelessness within the first two years. Approximately 140 young people each year leave care and present as homeless. Whilst this represents a minority of those leaving care, it highlights a pressing need to understand the causes, and what can be done to prevent it. This group has become a central focus for Homewards Northern Ireland.

Creating stronger, more inclusive routes into work:

At this week’s event, Homewards brought together employers, partners and young people in Northern Ireland to explore how together they can open up stronger, more inclusive routes into work for care‑experienced young people.

Homewards also shared its ambition for the year ahead, including working with pioneering employers to create permanent roles with flexibility, mentoring and wrap‑around support. Partners delivering specialist routes into work – from digital and tech roles to hospitality training and trauma‑informed mentoring – outlined the support already available to help young people prepare for and sustain employment.

Young people’s voices at the centre:

One of the most powerful moments came from the young people who took part in the discussion, sharing their experiences of navigating employment and building their independence.

One participant reflected: “I wasn’t aware of the myriad opportunities to engage young people with care experience and at risk of homelessness. A purposeful session that has inspired me to champion a new avenue of recruitment and support for young people.”

The energy in the room reflected a shared commitment to adapting recruitment processes, opening doors, and building supportive workplaces that could help young people thrive.

Together with employers and partner, Homewards is working to help make homelessness rare, brief and unrepeated.