The Journey So Far

The Foyer Federation developed Advantaged Thinking more than 12 years ago.

It was first shared with the world at a TEDx talk in 2011 by the Foyer Federation’s then-Director of Innovation, Colin Falconer, who developed the approach from his research into asset-based work. Since then, the AT movement has grown throughout the UK through the work of the Foyer Federation and the Foyer network, Colin Falconer and forward-thinking funders such as Paul Hamlyn Foundation. It has also grown internationally in Australia through the work of the Foyer Foundation, Colony 47 and The Brotherhood of St Laurence, in France through Apprentis d’Auteuil, and in the USA, Ireland and Holland too.

Advantaged Thinking is embedded in all the work the Foyer Federation does. Below are some of examples of how this looks in action.

• A national network of members. The Foyer Federation has over 65 member organisations, each of which offer housing and wraparound support for 16-25 year olds who can’t live at home. Members include housing associations, local authorities and charities, all of which are committed to working in an Advantaged Thinking way and have these practices embedded within their service. 
• Accreditation. The Foyer Federation’s Accreditation is a quality assurance framework designed to support, develop and recognise organisations that provide high-quality services for young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The accreditation is widely recognised as a mark of excellence and demonstrates each service’s commitment to working in an Advantaged Thinking way.
• Working with young people. The Foyer Federation works with young people to grow their existing skills, talents and interests. It develops and delivers programmes and opportunities with and for young people that build on their strengths and further their progress towards their goals.
• Language and communication. The Foyer Federation’s communications emphasise positive outcomes and possibilities rather than negative stereotypes or perspectives. For example, instead of referring to young people as ‘homeless’ we might use language such as ‘experiencing homelessness’, emphasising that the person comes first and reflecting the temporary nature of their circumstances. 

The Foyer Federation’s use of Advantaged Thinking is at the heart of its approach to supporting young people experiencing homelessness. By focusing on strengths and assets, rather than just addressing deficits and needs, young people can see themselves as capable and resilient, and believe that they can achieve their goals and build a thriving future for themselves.