Smiling group wearing safety helmets inside a transport van.

Opening doors to brighter futures

Empowering over 2000 young people on their journey to independence

Welcome to Carlisle Key

Carlisle Key supports young people aged 16-25 who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk. Through our drop-in centre and housing services, we offer practical help, emotional support, and advice on housing, benefits, and financial challenges

Carlisle Key has been invaluable to me as a care leaver. I have had so much support from the service. I would definitely not be where I am today without there support and help

- Young Person

OUR VALUE

Empowering young people

We believe in giving young people more than just a roof over their heads - we equip them with the knowledge, support and confidence they need to live independently and actively contribute to their community. Our goal is to create a safe space from which they can build stronger, more hopeful futures.

More about our values

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

The relief of need, hardship and distress of young people aged 16-25, in Carlisle and distinct by the provision of emergency overnight accommodation and other related services and to encourage them towards independent living.

Our services

At Carlisle Key, we support young people aged 16–25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Whether you need urgent help today or longer-term support to rebuild your life, we’re here to listen, guide, and support you.
Our services are free, confidential and friendly, and you don’t need an appointment to access help.

Community hub
Drop-in centre

Supported
accomodation

Wellbeing and
mental health

Find out how to get support

Our impact

Last year at Carlisle Key

Every number represents a young person with a different story, challenge and future.

203
young people supported

16,496
support outcomes recorded

103
young people supported into suitable housing

45
young people supported into emergency accomodation

47
young people into education

47
young people into work

234
food parcels distributed

Young people's voice

"I finally felt listened to."

A young person first came to Carlisle Key at 17 years old while struggling with housing, mental health and isolation. Over several years, staff supported her with rent arrearts, benefits, emotional wellbeing, parenting support and access to activities...

Ongoing Support Through Crisis and Change

A young woman first came to Carlisle Key’s drop-in service in September 2020 when she was around 10 weeks pregnant. At the time, she felt isolated and overwhelmed...

Building Confidence and Independence

A young person was referred to Carlisle Key in 2022 while living with family members who were no longer able to continue supporting them due to health issues...

Headline news

Carlisle Key at Westminster: Raising Our Voice for a Youth Homelessness Chapter

Date published:

27 June 2025

On a bright day in May 2025, Carlisle Key proudly stood alongside organisations from across the UK at Westminster to support the campaign for a dedicated Youth Chapter in the government’s homelessness strategy.

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Honouring the Legacy of Graeme Ridgewell

Date published:

7 November 2024

This passing month, we bid farewell to our beloved Chair, Trustee, and Founder, Graeme Ridgewell. With deep sadness and immense gratitude, we reflect on his legacy and the incredible impact he has had on our community.

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