Tom's story: Inspired by adventure
Tom was supported by Centrepoint after a long period of sofa surfing. He attended a activity camp through Centrepoint which has given him inspiration for his future.
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.
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Tom was supported by Centrepoint after a long period of sofa surfing. He attended a activity camp through Centrepoint which has given him inspiration for his future.
Emily, 21, was referred to Centrepoint after calling the Centrepoint Helpline following a family breakdown. She has been placed in a shared house with other young woman and is hoping to return to education once her mental health feels more stable. She has a keen interest in psychology and hopes one day to become a forensic psychologist.
Sharon became homeless after dropping out of university due to poor mental health. Six years later, she is in her third year of a new degree, working as a supported housing officer and volunteering for Centrepoint!
Munii, 23, lives in one of Centrepoint’s Independent Living properties and was supported by the Centrepoint Jobs, Employment and Training team into an apprenticeship. This is her story in her words.
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.
Lara was referred to Centrepoint aged 16 through social services. Since being with Centrepoint she has been supported with key decisions, education and mental health. She is now studying Law at Unversity and is helped financially during her studies through the Centrepoint Bursary Scheme.
Cameron has Auditory Processing Disorder but never let this stop him achieving his full potential. Despite the difficulties of pursuing a career in hospitality during a pandemic, Cameron kept busy and completed his relevant qualifications. Cameron’s hard work paid off and he achieved his dream job working as a chef. In 2021 he won the Centrepoint Career Progression Award.
Shante, 24, was referred to Centrepoint in August 2019 following the birth of her first daughter. She has won a 2021 Centrepoint Award for her unwavering commitment to her daughters and being a great role model to them and others.
Ryan came to Centrepoint aged just 17 and stayed for three years before moving on. Whilst at Centrepoint, he received wrap-around support from a variety of teams within the organisation. Ryan is feeling more optimistic about his future and although he still has difficulties, he feels Centrepoint has equipped him with skills that he will use and value for life.
Mitak received floating support from Centrepoint when he left the care system. Centrepoint helped Mitak to focus on his goals and follow his dreams. Today Mitak has written a book on his life story and set up his own digital marketing business.
Dale’s Centrepoint journey has been long and multifaceted. It started when he was just 17. He is now 23, has graduated with a first class honours degree in Sociology and Criminology and has recently moved into one of our independent living properties.
Jake became homeless after coming out as gay to his mum. After living in temporary accommodation for a number of months, Jake was referred to Centrepoint in December 2020 and has recently been supported by the Bursary Scheme to buy hairdressing equipment for his apprenticeship.