Real stories

Carrianne came to London in search of her father in 1983 at just 15-years-old. She met two punks in Soho who told her about the Centrepoint night shelter.

Centrepoint supported Antonio with securing housing and an apprenticeship in hospitality. He is now living independently on the Kent coast with his fiancée and hopes to one day run his own bar.

Following a family breakdown at 18, Kyle ended up on the streets. With support from Centrepoint, Kyle is now in his own permanent accommodation, has put drugs behind him and is on the path to securing stable employment.

Kyla sought help from Centrepoint in 2018 when she was at breaking point after her baby son was adopted. The team in Manchester supported her with drug and alcohol counselling, mental health support and securing housing and benefits. Four years later, Kyla is in her own home, in the second year of university and teetotal. Here is her story in her own words.

Shante, 24, was referred to Centrepoint in August 2019 following the birth of her first daughter. She has won a 2021 Centrepoint Award for her unwavering commitment to her daughters and being a great role model to them and others.

Mitak received floating support from Centrepoint when he left the care system. Centrepoint helped Mitak to focus on his goals and follow his dreams. Today Mitak has written a book on his life story and set up his own digital marketing business.

Tania* was thrown out of her parents’ home after being subjected to verbal and emotional abuse. She sofa-surfed with a friend for a short period before being referred to Centrepoint, where she received the support she needed to move on to independence.

Bethany grew up in care from age 11 after her grandmother passed away. She became pregnant at 16, but completed her GCSEs and A-Levels and she is now managing parenting with a full-time degree in International Public and Social Policy at the LSE with financial support from the Centrepoint Bursary.

Malik was struggling with his sense of identity and a relationship breakdown with his parents meant he became homeless. Since being at Centrepoint, Malik has made new friends, been given valuable advice, started an apprenticeship and now moved into his own home. This is his journey in his own words.

Initially scared to accept help with his mental health, Tom eventually found sanctuary at Centrepoint and received wrap around support which enabled him to take the steps towards independence. He has now moved on into his own flat.

Adele suffered bullying, mental ill-health and family breakdown. With Centrepoint's support, she is on the road to recovery.

During the pandemic, Abdi* became homeless and was at risk of rough sleeping had Centrepoint's Homeless Prevention Service in Manchester not been able to place him in emergency accommodation. He is now settled, but looking forwards to restrictions easing so he can take his driving test and start working.