Ignis Lodge

The West Midlands region faces significant challenges in terms of housing, employment, and health for vulnerable individuals. Key groups such as care leavers, ex-armed forces personnel, and people recovering from crises are disproportionately affected. Unemployment: The West Midlands has one of the highest unemployment rates in the UK at 6.4% (2023, ONS), significantly higher than the national average of 4.2%. Youth care leavers: A report by the Department for Education (DfE) in 2023 showed that 40% of care leavers aged 19-21 in the West Midlands were not in education, employment, or training (NEET) and 40% were at risk of deprivation. Veterans Research from the Royal British Legion (2021) highlighted that 1 in 5 veterans have trouble transitioning to civilian life, leading to mental health challenges, unemployment, and homelessness. Help for Heroes (2022) report 65% of veterans face severe mental health challenges after transitioning to civilian life Homelessness According to Shelter (2023), the West Midlands has over 20,000 people without stable homes. Our mission is to create a vibrant community where individuals find a safe haven to recover from crisis, provide a space to engage and grow through dialogue, and develop an environment where we learn and flourish together.