Young people’s stories
Dani’s story
Dani’s life had been chaotic and unstable. Her social worker referred her to YMCA DownsLink Group, and, with the help of her YMCA WiSE project worker, she began to make better decisions around relationships and her future.
Becky’s story
Becky is 19 and left home after her Dad’s drinking became too much for her to cope with. Her mum died when she was 10 and her Dad turned to alcohol to deal with his grief. She moved in with her boyfriend at 17 as a way to get away from her Dad, but when that didn’t work out she found herself facing homelessness.
Adi’s story
Adi is an unaccompanied asylum–seeking young person who threw himself into every opportunity when he moved into our supported accommodation despite facing huge adversity.
Millie’s story
Millie had a difficult childhood which impacted her mental health and resulted in her leaving home at just 16. She was given a home in our 24-hour supported accommodation and life began to improve when she received the wraparound care and consistent support she needed.
Temesgen’s story
At just 16, Temesgen had to leave his family in Ethiopia and start a new life in the UK. He was given a home with us and received support to learn English, take part in volunteering and join in with YMCA activities.
Nathan’s story
Nathan was struggling with his family relationships and mental health after coming out to his family at 15. Our Youth Advice Service found him specialist help.
Jack’s story
Jack came out as gay when he was 15. His family struggled to accept it and it caused tension and arguments at home. The situation came to a head when Jack was 16. After a huge row his Dad threw him out.
Dee’s story
Dee dreams of being a champion. She wants to represent Britain as part of the GB boxing team. Despite facing challenges as a teenager, with our support, she’s thriving and is working hard to turn her dreams into reality.
Archie’s story
After a chaotic few years Archie found stability at the YMCA. Now, with help from YMCA’s Life Change Fund he’s all set to take another big step forwards.
Maya’s story
Maya’s childhood was filled with instability as she constantly moved around the country. She found a home in our supported accommodation when she was just 16 and started to build up her life skills and create some consistency with our support.
Randy’s story
Randy had to leave his family and travel across the world to start a new life free from persecution. He is living in 24 hour supported housing and thriving.
Stacy’s story
Stacy was referred to our support and advice service after having trouble with her mental health. She started working with one of our support workers and has been feeling a lot happier in herself since.
George’s story
When George* was 14, his life seemed normal until his mother struggled with mental health and his father left the family. Feeling abandoned, George […]
