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.
When Tara (20) was 18, she fell pregnant with her first child and had to leave home and was referred into one of Centrepoint’s services for young parents. Despite financial struggles and adjusting to the big changes of becoming a mother, two years on, Tara and her son are doing well and living independently.
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.
Kyle became homeless back in 2011 when he was just 16. Family difficulties meant he wasn’t able to stay at home, so he began his journey with Centrepoint. 14 years on he is still proudly involved with Centrepoint and hopes to help a new generation of young people experiencing homelessness.
Sanya became homeless at 18 after a bereavement triggered a family breakdown. She lived with relatives for a short period before presenting as homeless to her local council and eventually being referred to Centrepoint where she has received holistic support in a number of areas. Three years later, she is in her own home and 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!
Tamsin Clements
Zeph (18), who identifies as non-binary, was referred to Centrepoint’s therapeutic service for 16-18-year-old when they became homeless. They were able to attend a horticulture residential with the RHS ahead of the Chelsea Flower Show in 2023 and they are now studying Forensic Psychology at university and being supported by the Centrepoint Bursary.
Tamsin Clements
Idan (23) grew up in an unstable household. A particularly traumatic event resulted in her becoming homeless and led her to moving into a Centrepoint service. Now in her own place, Idan has started a journey of healing and stability.
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.
