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Woman smiling at camera in a garden

Gill’s story: Volunteering has given me another dimension

Sophie Hornby

Gill started volunteering 4 years ago after taking early retirement and looking for something that could give her a sense of purpose and direction. Whilst volunteering she's been involved in a variety of activities from coaching young people to supporting with ESOL and cheering on Centrepoint Marathon runners. We are so grateful for all of the support that Gill has given during her time as a volunteer and are excited for what comes next in her journey with Centrepoint.

Young man smiling and looking at camera

Samsom’s story: I feel happy. I feel proud.

Sophie Hornby

Samsom, 18, came to the UK in 2023 as an unaccompanied asylum-seeking child, after he had to leave his home country of Eritrea. After living with his foster family until he was 16, he moved into a Centrepoint supported home. He's now thriving academically, having recently won Student of the Year at his college and being recognised through the Centrepoint Educational Excellence award.

Young man outside running

Seyfu's story: Run every day and don't give up

Sophie Hornby

Seyfu, 24, came to Centrepoint three years ago after leaving Ethiopia as an asylum seeker. When he arrived in the UK, he was struck by how many people he saw running, and as a way to meet new people and create a sense of community, he decided to join his local club. After years of consistent training and competing nationally and internationally, Seyfu is currently preparing for the 2028 Olympics, where he will be representing Team GB in the marathon.

Young woman smiling having a coffee

Charlotte’s story: Life does have a way of working itself out

Sophie Hornby

Charlotte, 24, was referred to Centrepoint at 17 after she was made to leave the family home. Together with her key worker, they looked for different roles she might take on, but as COVID hit, she began to struggle with her mental health and took time out to find the right kind of support. After finding an online journalism course, she has been drawn towards this as a career, driven by her strong moral compass and a desire to tell truthful stories.

Young woman smiling at camera

Holly's story: I want to live my life

Sophie Hornby

Holly, 20, came to Centrepoint almost a year ago with her three-year-old son following a breakdown in the relationship with her mum. She was moved into a mother and baby supported home where she has built a strong sense of community and has gotten involved with a range of different creative activities. She's now finishing her level 2 qualifications and will soon start a new role as a carer, before pursuing her dream career of being a prison officer.

Young man in a red hat standing in front of a wall

Harry’s story: Everything now is in the right place

Sophie Hornby

Harry, 21, arrived in the UK after leaving Sudan as a refugee. After receiving his refugee status, he was forced to leave his hotel, meaning that he had to rough sleep. He was met and supported by the Rough Sleepers and Complex Case team who got him into emergency accommodation. He's now moved into an independent home and is studying ESOL - with dreams of becoming a web designer in the future.

Man smiling with cross arms

Mubarak: Have a target and you will reach it

Sophie Hornby

Mubarak, 21, arrived in the UK in 2021 under humanitarian protection after fleeing Sudan as an unaccompanied minor. After living in care for a few years, he was moved to a Centrepoint semi-independent home when he was at risk of homelessness. He's been working closely with the jobs and education team to help him get the necessary qualifications he needs to achieve his dream of being a barber.