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.
Tiah, 18, came to Centrepoint following some difficulties in the relationship with her mum. After living in care until her 18th birthday she was referred to Centrepoint. Her skills and confidence have gone from strength to strength and she's now looking forward to an independent future.
Lolo, 23, was referred to Centrepoint support by her social worker following a year of sofa surfing. She was struggling to find somewhere affordable and appropriate for her and her one-year-old and was just about to give birth to her second child. She is now settled into her new home with both of her children and is excited for them to grow together as a family.
Miss Lartey came to Centrepoint after a family breakdown and was supported by a few organisations to help her find a home and live an independent life. She is now a pillar of her local community, starting up her own charity called Naala’s House, which aims to empower communities, combat poverty and create sustainable and long-lasting change.
Akhida, 26, came to the UK from Bangladesh at 16, following an arranged marriage. However, she soon had to flee her home due to domestic abuse and the council referred her to Centrepoint for floating support. Akhida is now working full time and looking to go to university to help her become a social worker.
Chloe, 23, came to Centrepoint a year ago when her mum was taken to hospital after suffering a stroke. Following a family breakdown, Chloe sofa surfed with a cousin, until she was referred to Centrepoint for support. She's now about to start an apprenticeship with the local authority and looking to move into a place of her own.
Raza, 20, came to Centrepoint following a family breakdown where he ended up sofa surfing. He's now completed his SIA security training and is looking forward to a future in security.
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.
Maizen came to Centrepoint four months ago, after the home that he was staying in with his father became unsuitable. He’s now well on his way to getting his engineering qualification and has plans to work in aeronautical engineering in the future.
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.
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.
Sam, 21, became homeless following a family breakdown and struggles with his mental health. Centrepoint supported Sam to begin living a more independent life and start rebuilding his relationship with his family.
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.
