When Lucas moved into supported housing, he was looking for stability and a chance to move forward. What he found was a safe and welcoming environment where he could build his confidence, develop new skills and prepare for independent living. 

For the first time, I’m really looking forward to the future.

We met Lucas shortly before he moved out of supported housing, after four years with YMCA DownsLink Group. During this time, he rebuilt his relationship with his family and moved to a supported housing service closer to his hometown.

Looking back on his experience, he said: 

“Everyone makes you feel at ease and is so nice, despite what they’ve been through. It’s calm, no shouting or arguments. Having your own space really helps.”

Before moving into YMCA DownsLink Group supported housing, Lucas struggled with his mental health and found it difficult to see a positive future for himself.

“My mental health was terrible for ages. I couldn’t motivate myself to do anything. Everything felt impossible, like there was no end to the tunnel”.

Having a place where he felt safe and supported gave Lucas the opportunity to focus on his wellbeing and make positive changes. A move to supported housing closer to his hometown proved to be a turning point, helping him reconnect with familiar places, people and the support network around him.

With the support of staff and the encouragement of those around him, Lucas began to grow in confidence and look ahead to the future with renewed optimism. He developed a strong relationship with his support worker, whose patience and encouragement helped him open up and engage with support.

“My support worker was so helpful, always going above and beyond. I found it hard to let anyone in, but she knew how to get through to me. Our conversations really helped me move forward.”

During his time in supported housing, Lucas developed a range of practical skills to help him live independently. From learning to cook and manage daily responsibilities to building routines and becoming more self-reliant, each step helped prepare him for life in his own home. 

He also valued the sense of community within the service and the opportunities to connect with others.

“I loved Christmas at YMCA DownsLink Group supported housing. You’d think it’d be sad, but instead it was lovely, with decorations everywhere and the staff even got us presents.”

Chaplaincy sessions also played an important role in his journey, he said: 

“Elly, the chaplain, is a ray of sunshine and my queen! She has a way of putting everyone at ease. I knew I’d miss the chaplaincy sessions when I moved on.” 

Through these sessions and the wider support available, Lucas was able to reflect on his experiences, build his self-confidence and strengthen his sense of hope for the future. 

Over time, he began to feel ready for the next step.

“Now I feel I can build a routine, get healthy and move into my own place. Anxiety has held me back before, but this time I’m going for it.”

Armed with greater confidence, practical life skills and a stronger belief in himself, he successfully moved into his own home. 

Now settled into independent living, Lucas is excited about what lies ahead. He is preparing for his driving theory test, exploring work opportunities that suit his strengths and continuing to pursue his passion for writing.

“I’ve been writing a book since I was 15. I want to keep progressing it, though not necessarily make a living from it. It’s my hobby.”

Looking back on how far he has come, he feels positive about the future and the opportunities it holds.

Lucas is happy and doing well in his one-bedroom flat. He remains connected to the people who supported him on his journey and still enjoys visiting for chaplaincy evenings and a chat with Elly.