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.
This year, three young people supported by Centrepoint's Bradford services, have completed their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award. This story follows their experiences through the different stages of the award, and their journey with Centrepoint, as they move towards independence.
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.
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.
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.
Jahzyah, 20, moved to a Centrepoint home two years ago after being in and out of the care system from the age of four. He’s recently been accepted into the Identity School of Acting and is currently waiting for to hear from the council about moving into his own home.
Kingsley and Cornelius took part in a four-week work placement with award-winning ground maintenance provider, Idverde to help develop their skills and confidence. Our training team helped to support them with developing functional skills, employability advice and taking that next step into the working world.
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.
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.
Chelsea and Jayden have come from the lowest points in their lives to looking forward to their first Christmas together in their own home. Not only did they find each other at Centrepoint, they have both been helped and supported to find the self-belief and confidence they need to live independent lives.
