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.
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.
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.
David Monteith-Hodge - Sleep Out 2023
Ben became homeless at 15 and for the remainder of his teenage years, he moved between hostels, B&Bs, shelters and rough sleeping. At 19, Ben was placed into a Centrepoint hostel and from there a Centrepoint self-contained flat where he met staff members that were to have a lasting impact on his life.
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.
