Jimmy Somerville and producer Sally Herbert have announced they will donate all profits from their forthcoming single, a cover of Nina Simone’s classic Everything Must Change to UK charity network, End Youth Homelessness. 

The charity network, which includes Centrepoint alongside other regional charities, has warned of an increase in youth homelessness against a backdrop of strained provision, and increases in unemployment and demand for mental health support. 

2019/20 figures show that 121,000 young people asked for help from their local council because they were homeless or at risk of homelessness. Data from the Office for National Statistics identified that during the pandemic, more 16–24-year-olds dropped out of the UK workforce than any other age group, with Centrepoint predicting that 2021 could see the worst homelessness crisis in the charity’s 50-year history. 

Choosing to cover Everything Must Change with producer Sally Herbert, in aid of End Youth Homelessness, Somerville said: “We can’t ignore youth homelessness; it’s predicted to get worse, as the pandemic has stripped many young people of their prospects. The vulnerability, fear, rejection, violence they have to live with every day is unacceptable. As a society we should be providing hope for our young people.” 

All profits from the single will be going toward helping End Youth Homelessness in their work supporting over 30,000 young vulnerable people across the UK.

Set for release on 26 February, Everything Must Change is accompanied by a video from production company Ridley Scott Associates (RSA Films) and directors Swann & Yoann. 

“We are thrilled that the extremely talented Jimmy Somerville has chosen to donate profits from his new single to End Youth Homelessness,” said EYH Managing Director, Nick Connolly. “In 2021, we are expecting many more young people to approach our member charities for help, and we want to support as many as possible. Jimmy’s support will help us to reach more homeless young people and give them a safe place to call home.”

UK Youth Homelessness is on the rise, and the coronavirus pandemic paints a worrying picture. Young people are facing the most significant long-term financial damage, with vulnerable young people being hit especially hard. The work of End Youth Homelessness has never been more crucial. By supporting End Youth Homelessness, you help give homeless young people access to housing, employment, and a life of hope over fear. You can donate here.