We share the stories of those with lived experience of homelessness and those working to end it. Through these voices, we raise awareness, inform research and raise funds to support young people and to end youth homelessness.
David Monteith Hodge
Eli, 20, became homeless following a family breakdown and slept rough for a short time before requesting a referral to Centrepoint. Since then, he has been supported by the CP Works team and the Centrepoint bursary to support his catering and hospitality apprenticeship. He hopes one day to open his own restaurant.
David Monteith Hodge
Cassie was referred to Centrepoint at 17 after a bereavement triggered a family breakdown and she became homeless. Four years later, Cassie has completed her degree in Fine Art and a PGCE and has just qualified as an art teacher.
Lisa, 21, came to the UK from Vietnam aged 12 and became a resident at Centrepoint after leaving care at 18. She moved on from Centrepoint when she started university and throughout her degree she was supported financially through the Centrepoint Bursary. She has recently graduated with a first class honours.
Ben Vaughan Centrepoint
Andrew was referred to Centrepoint’s Independent Living Programme after struggling to pay rent in supported housing once he started working. After a year in ILP, he has now moved into his own flat and is about to qualify as an electrician.
In 2022, Naira (26) became homeless after escaping an abusive marriage. Centrepoint supported Naira into a home and employment . Over a year later, she is still in employment with Pret and thriving.
Tamsin Clements
Addi (22), who is neurodivergent, has been living at a Centrepoint service for eight months. He became homeless following a family breakdown. Now, he's preparing to move into his own place!
Nadine (19) was in care for two and half years before returning to her mum's, but living together placed further strain on the relationship and she decided to move into semi-independent living. She received help from Centrepoint Works with key employability skills and has secured an apprenticeship with the organisation.
Yasmina became homeless after fleeing abuse. She is now living in one of Centrepoint's Independent Living properties where she has been able to focus on her future.
Aysar became homeless after his family found out about a same-sex relationship. Centrepoint have supported Aysar with his mental health and finding employment. He hopes to move into his own accommodation soon.
Layla became homeless at 18. She called the Centrepoint Helpline who were able to arrange an assessment with the Homeless Prevention and Relief Service (HPRS) in Manchester. She is now living in a self-contained flat and supported by Centrepoint’s Floating Support Team.
Lewis received floating support from Centrepoint after he moved into his council flat at 18 after sofa-surfing for three years. Centrepoint supported him in managing and maintaining his tenancy and with financial support through the Centrepoint Bursary which he will receive throughout his three-year degree in Criminology. Lewis hope to join the police after he graduates.
The Centrepoint Bursary has made such a difference to Katy* throughout her carpentry course. It has provided funding for clothing, carpentry tools as well as travel to college and construction sites which has made it possible for Katy not only to access, but also sustain her training. She is hopes to go on to work in construction management.
