Cameron, 23, first came to Centrepoint at 17 following a breakdown in the relationship with his family. After being supported on and off by his key work team, he is now living independently in his own flat, working as a chef and studying at culinary college. He was recognised for his drive and determination in 2021, when he won the Centrepoint Career and Progression Award.
Aryan called the Centrepoint Helpline after he had begun rough sleeping when he was no longer able to stay in the family home. He reached out to the local council for support, but was told by them that he was not a priority. Not knowing where else to turn, he called the Centrepoint Helpline who were able to refer him to a local support centre.
Brian, 19, came to Centrepoint following a family breakdown which meant he had to leave the family home. He reached out to the council for emergency housing, however after they said he was not a priority he called the Centrepoint Helpline for support. They were able to identify a Centrepoint supported home in this area and before long he moved in. After working closely with his key worker and the jobs and education team, he is now working full-time and finishing his qualifications to help him take the next steps.
Ged, a retired teacher, began volunteering with Centrepoint six years ago, after he was inspired by his students who were supporting those experiencing homelessness in the local community. He's now been volunteering at a young parent's service for 6 years, where he was recently recognised for his work through Room to Reward.
Thad came to Centrepoint after their landlord evicted them and their sister due to the property needing renovation. After living in a supported home for a few years, they've been able to grow their interest in film and media, recently making a short film titled "Monster" as part of their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Aisha, 21, came to Centrepoint following a trauma within her family which meant she was forced to leave her home. After being placed in a hotel temporarily, she was moved to a Centrepoint supported home where she has been developing her confidence and independent living skills. She has recently been a part of the Duke of Edinburgh team creating a short film called 'Monster' and is preparing to shortly move into her own home.
Amy, 19, came to Centrepoint at 17 following challenges in the relationship with her mother and due to safety concerns in her local area. After working with the education trainer to complete her GCSEs and with the jobs advisor to map her career goals, she is currently working in her local council in a respite service.
Umar, 23, has just finished his tenure with Centrepoint’s first Lived Experience Advisory Board (LEAB), where he has dedicated his time, energy and background to ensuring that vital decision making around Centrepoint, and the sector more widely, is based on the voices of young people. He has taken the time recently to reflect on his time with the LEAB and his journey to, with and from Centrepoint.
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.
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.
