Young People Stories
Tarek* was referred to Step by Step as an unaccompanied asylum seeking child. As a teenager back in Syria, he did construction work to support his mum and younger siblings after his dad had been wrongfully imprisoned by government forces. Due to the increasing threat of death from these government forces, Tarek was forced to leave his home country, leaving behind his family and the only life he ever knew.
The 17 year old took on a perilous journey, travelling through many different countries where he faced violence and torture, before arriving safely in the UK. When Tarek arrived, he was relieved to finally feel safe but also devastated that he had to separate from his mum and younger sisters to do so.
After arriving in the UK, he was referred to Step by Step’s Supported Lodgings service via the National Transfer Scheme. Tarek was soon matched with a host family in Reading, who have helped him to feel safe and secure during uncertain times.
His hosts have supported him to open a bank account, attend health appointments and to join a local mosque. They’ve taught him how to cook, help him with his homework and are always there for him when he’s homesick or unsure.
Initially Tarek only knew a few words in English, but as a committed learner he is now able to hold full conversations in English. He is on track to complete his ESOL level 2 qualification by the summer and dreams of becoming an engineer.
When dictator Bashar al-Assad finally fled Syria, Tarek had some hope that his dad may be found in one of the prisons. Sadly, after footage was released of the mass graves used to bury prisoners, he has lost that hope. He now believes his father was one of the hundreds of thousands of people murdered whilst in wrongful imprisonment.
Despite everything Tarek has been through, he remains a positive person. He is kind and polite to all and has found a group of good friends who he plays sports with and meets with at the mosque regularly.
Now that he has obtained right to remain status, he is keen to take on a mechanics course at Reading College. Tarek is extremely thankful that the UK have granted him asylum and is passionate about giving back to the country that’s welcomed him. He hopes to one day move closer to his uncle in London and is determined to make a success of his life.
*Name changed to respect privacy
Step by Step’s Supported Lodgings has become the first service of its kind to achieve Ofsted accreditation. We are now the largest Supported Lodgings provider in the UK, as well as being considered the authority in the field.
