Real stories

Tom was supported by Centrepoint after a long period of sofa surfing. He attended an activity camp through Centrepoint which has given him inspiration for his future.

Frankie experienced homelessness and unstable living conditions throughout the Pandemic. With Centrepoint’s support, Frankie is now in stable accommodation, but facing challenges in being recognised as a Trans person when it comes to housing. Although, he is feeling more settled, he is concerned about what new challenges young vulnerable people will face in a cost-of-living crisis.

Emily, 21, was referred to Centrepoint after calling the Centrepoint Helpline following a family breakdown. She has been placed in a shared house with other young woman and is hoping to return to education once her mental health feels more stable. She has a keen interest in psychology and hopes one day to become a forensic psychologist.

Sharon became homeless after dropping out of university due to poor mental health. Six years later, she is in her third year of a new degree, working as a supported housing officer and volunteering for Centrepoint!

Munii, 23, lives in one of Centrepoint’s Independent Living properties and was supported by the Centrepoint Jobs, Employment and Training team into an apprenticeship. This is her story in her words.

Kidane fled Eritrea after his father was kidnapped and never seen again. Kidane made the dangerous journey to the UK, where he was supported by Centrepoint into training and independence.

Ari (21), who is non-binary, left home following a relationship breakdown with their parents. After staying with their aunt for a week, they reached out to their local council for support. Ari was referred on to Centrepoint in Bradford where they received mental health and employment support. Ari has since moved into independent accommodation and is looking forward to the future.

Lara was referred to Centrepoint aged 16 through social services. Since being with Centrepoint she has been supported with key decisions, education and mental health. She is now studying Law at University and is helped financially during her studies through the Centrepoint Bursary Scheme.

When Jason became homeless during the pandemic, he called the Centrepoint Helpline who referred him into our Homelessness Prevention & Relief Service (HPRS) in. Once he had a roof over his head, Jason was able to find employment in a residential care home. Jason is now looking forward to going to university and finding a permanent home of his own.

Rich, 25, experienced three periods of homelessness since the age of 17. Despite the uncertainty and instability, he has kept on moving forward and he is now in an apprenticeship in London and living in one of Centrepoint’s Independent Living Properties.

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.

Jake became homeless after coming out as gay to his mum. After living in temporary accommodation for a number of months, Jake was referred to Centrepoint in December 2020 and has recently been supported by the Bursary Scheme to buy hairdressing equipment for his apprenticeship.