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.
Lily, 20, reached out the helpline after she was kicked out of her partner’s sister’s home. She sofa surfed with a family friend who recommended she called the Helpline and Lily reached out for support. She’s now living in shared accommodation and is excited to have a space of her own.
BP, 19, was referred to Centrepoint by his social work team three years ago. After a series of injuries stopped his career in football, he's recently completed his security training and is now looking for roles that work for him.
Ben, 21, came to Centrepoint after struggling with his mental health and was unable to stay at home due to his frequent mood swings. Two years later, he is now studying music production at college and taking steps to get ready for university.
Dee was supported over a number of weeks by the Centrepoint Helpline who advocated on her behalf. A few months later, Dee is living in temporary accommodation in a studio flat, has been assessed as priority need and can start bidding on properties. This means that she is able to start “rebuilding her life.”
Annie, or Jae as they were known to their friends, came to Centrepoint after experiencing family difficulties. Despite a sometimes-strained relationship, Annie and their family remained close. Annie tragically passed away just a week before their 21st birthday due to complications from hypothyroidism, a condition they were diagnosed with as a teenager.
Harmony, 18, became homeless following a family breakdown and has been supported by Centrepoint for the past year. She is passionate about music and poetry and hopes to one day become a holistic therapist.
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.
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.
Ellie found Centrepoint when she was at University doing her Masters. Despite difficulties throughout her education she passed with a distinction and now focuses on helping other young people who need support.
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.
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.
