From care experience to national advocacy: Lily’s story
This is a real story, shared with permission. We’ve used a stock photo, changed the name and adjusted some details to ensure the young person’s safety and confidentiality.
At just 12 years old, “Lily” had to leave home and move in with foster carers. Her parents were experiencing significant difficulties, and the instability and mistreatment she faced at home meant it was no longer safe for her to stay.
In the years that followed, Lily continued to face challenges as she tried to build stability and independence.
“When I turned 18, I went to live with someone I knew, but after a while it became uncomfortable, so I left. I then stayed with relatives for a short time, but it wasn’t a long-term option, especially as one family member was unwell and I didn’t want to add pressure.”
Lily tried to get referred for housing support, but she initially struggled to get the help she needed. “I didn’t feel listened to at first, so I made a complaint. That helped me get the right support in place, and eventually I received my referral.”
Lily later moved into YMCA DownsLink Group supported housing for young people.
“When I arrived, the staff were so helpful. My keyworker suggested services that made a huge difference. I received support for my mental health and help processing past trauma. Everyone here is so kind. You can go to them about anything, anytime, and they’ll listen.”
By the end of that year, Lily secured a job as a kitchen assistant in a residential setting for children with additional needs. She worked there for over a year but eventually had to resign due to worsening mobility and health issues. “The job involved a lot of standing and moving. Even though my employer tried to help, it became too much.”
Lily also became involved in a young people’s advisory and participation group, which plays a national role in improving support for care experienced young people.
“After winning an award, someone suggested I join a participation group. That was two years ago, and since then I’ve helped with recruitment, staff training and improving services so young people’s voices are heard.”
Her role involves travelling to represent young people and sharing her experiences as a care leaver.
“At first, I didn’t know where to start, so I wrote bullet points to help me when I spoke. Over time it got easier. Now I enjoy it. I share my story so people understand what being in care, and then leaving care, is really like.”
Lily is also helping develop new training for professionals to better understand neurodiversity and additional needs.
“Being involved in this work means a lot to me. It helps other young people, but it’s also been really good for my wellbeing. It’s given me purpose and helped me make friends.”
Alongside this, Lily volunteers as a resident representative in her supported accommodation, helping to organise activities for other young people living there.
Balancing everything hasn’t been easy, especially while caring for a close family member and coping with personal loss.
“These past months have been really difficult, but the staff have been so supportive. I don’t think I’d have managed without them.”
Lily is currently self-managing a long-term health condition while awaiting treatment. She has been referred to Adult Social Care and is waiting for an assessment to help plan her next steps, whether that’s moving into supported living or receiving ongoing support when she leaves her current accommodation.
Looking ahead, Lily has a clear idea of what she would like to do. “I want to work as a support worker helping children with special needs.”
Lily’s story shows just how life-changing stable support, safe housing and meaningful opportunities can be for a young person. With the right help around her, she’s been able not only to feel secure but to rediscover her confidence and hope for the future.
This is a powerful reminder of why trauma-informed services matter – and of how vital it is to truly listen to care experienced young people, making sure they feel heard, valued and supported as they take their first steps towards independence.
If you’re able to, your support today can help another young person find stability and hope.
