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.
Benjamin became homeless aged 17 and was referred to Centrepoint through social services. He has been supported in a variety of areas including mental health and benefited from working with one of Centrepoint’s amazing volunteers, a chef called Ben Mariner. This is his story.
Georges became homeless in 2016 and was referred to Centrepoint through social services. He originally shared his story back in 2018, but five years after leaving Centrepoint, we spoke with Georges again to share his experiences and learnings.
Joe was supported by Centrepoint in Manchester on and off over a number of years, but it’s only recently that Joe has been ready to turn his life around. From sleeping in every doorway in Manchester City Centre, Joe is now in a stable place and looking forward to the future.g summary
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.
David Monteith Hodge
Aimee, 18, is a young rapper with cerebral palsy. She became homeless in the middle of winter following a family breakdown. She was placed in a homeless hostel before being referred to Centrepoint where she has been given a self-contained flat and supported to develop independent living skills and advocate for herself. She recently won a Centrepoint 2024 Award presented to her, by Centrepoint's Patron, Prince William.
Adil left Syria as an unaccompanied minor aged 16 and made the treacherous journey to the UK in search of safety. This is his story in his own words.
Leni* (20), was referred to Centrepoint in 2020 after leaving care aged 18. They are now in their own flat, but still receive floating support as well as support from our dedicated health team. They identify as non-binary. This is in their words.
Rana, 22, became homeless due to family issues and was referred to Centrepoint. She is now living independently and working as a Lettings Director.
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.
Amelia was just 16 when she became a mother and moved into our young parent’s service. She was supported with benefits, budgeting, education – vital tools in a cost-of-living crisis.
