What do we mean when we say ‘street-connected’ ?
Working with street-connected children to better their lives is at the heart of what we do at SCU but sometimes we forget we are also responsible for educating and raising awareness of the circumstances/reasons why children are living and working on the streets. With that said, we have created some blogs pieces to help create a clearer understanding around the work we do and the children we serve, starting with what we mean when we use the term ‘street-connected’.
The term 'street-connected'
The term “street-connected child” refers to children and teenagers who have a significant connection to the streets, whether through living, working, or both. This connection may vary in intensity and form but typically involves a substantial part of their lives being spent on the streets rather than in a stable home or school environment.
Unlike terms such as ‘street children’ or ‘homeless children,’ ‘street-connected children’ acknowledges the diverse experiences and situations children face, emphasising the child’s relationship with the street environment and the complexities of their circumstances. The term is more understanding to addressing the needs and challenges of children in different communities, moving beyond simplistic labels to recognise the multifaceted realities of their lives.
How do we identify street-connected children?
Street connectedness will look different for every child. So, there are a myriad of ways in which children can be characterised as connected to the streets:
- • Living on the streets: Some children live entirely on the streets without a permanent home or family support. They might sleep in public spaces such as parks, bus stations, or abandoned buildings.
- • Working on the streets: Many street-connected children work on the streets to earn money for themselves or their families, for example by begging, selling small items, or providing services like shoe shining or car washing.
- • Spending significant time on the streets: Some children, despite having a home, spend most of their day on the streets due to economic necessity, abuse at home, or other reasons.
- • Family connections: Street-connected children may have regular or sporadic contact with their families, while others are completely estranged.
- • Vulnerability and risk: Street-connected children face various risks, including exploitation, violence, abuse, and health issues. They often lack access to education, healthcare, and other basic services.
What leads to street-connectedness?
There are four key drivers that push children into street-connected situations.
- • Poverty: Economic hardship is a primary driver, pushing children to the streets to support themselves or their families.
- • Family breakdowns: Domestic violence, abuse, neglect, and parental death or illness can force children to leave home.
- • Social exclusion: Marginalised groups, such as children from minority communities or those with disabilities, might be more likely to become street-connected due to discrimination and lack of support.
- • Urbanisation: Rapid urban growth can increase the number of street-connected children as families migrate to cities seeking better opportunities.
Why is it important to build awareness?
Understanding street-connected children and the challenges they face is critical to ensuring their safety, well-being, and future opportunities. At SCU we are committed to advocating for these children and breaking down the stigma associated with children living and working in street situations. We believe that better understanding will lead to better treatment, and in turn better opportunities for these young people to tell the world I AM SOMEBODY.
