Layla

YOUNG PEOPLE STORIES

Discover inspiring stories of resilience, determination and strength.

Kaleb's Story

Kaleb's Story

At just 17 years old, Kaleb took on a treacherous journey to the UK, fleeing war in his home country. When he was referred into Step by Step, he was extremely sad and anxious, having not been in contact with his mother or siblings in over a year. Step by Step placed Kaleb into Supported Lodgings, offering him a more family-like structure as he missed his family back home so much.

Alyssa's Story

Alyssa's Story

Alyssa faced homelessness at just 16 after her relationship with her mum broke down. Initially, she was able to stay with a friend and their family but unfortunately this was not somewhere she could live permanently. Alyssa’s friend and their family wanted to help however they could but were unsure of her rights and where they could turn to for support. They were pointed in the direction of Launch, our free service which offers advice and guidance to young people aged 11-25.

Naomi's Story

Naomi's Story

Following a breakdown in family relationships, 17 year-old Naomi was struggling with her wellbeing and unsure where she could turn for support. Step by Step’s Launch service provided the tailored support she had not been able to get elsewhere.

Tarek's Story

Tarek's Story

Tarek arrived to the UK as a separated child, fleeing the increasing threat of death from government forces in his home country. Step by Step were able to find him a host family who have helped him to feel safe and secure.

Sally's Story

Sally's Story

Sally became homeless at just 17 years old. When she thought she had nowhere else to go, there was a new family waiting to offer her safety and support, thanks to Step by Step's Supported Lodgings service.

Callum's Story

Callum's Story

Callum was forced to leave the family home when his relationship with his stepfather broke down. Like 190,000 young people in the UK each year, Callum found himself homeless. Unlike many, he was able to find the support he needed.

Bradley's Story

Bradley's Story

Bradley was made homeless at just 16 years old. Step by Step supported him with a safe, caring place to live, but when he came to move out, he faced one final barrier. That's where our Opportunities Fund came in.

Jenny's Story

Jenny's Story

Jenny was forced to leave the family home at just 17 years old. Things had become increasingly difficult to the point she no longer felt safe. Step by Step were able to help at what was a very scary, anxious time for her.

Hassan's Story

Hassan's Story

Hassan came to Step by Step’s New Forest Foyer in February 2023, having arrived in the UK from Iran just a few weeks earlier. He was a very polite young man despite feeling lost, overwhelmed and apprehensive in this new country and situation.

Rachel's Story

Rachel's Story

Step by Step offered Rachel a place in our Havant Foyer when she become homeless. With help from her Support Worker, she addressed the mental health issues that had been holding her back.

Charlie's Story

Charlie's Story

Charlie approached Launch when suddenly facing the prospect of homelessness. Just a few weeks later, Charlie had a new job, a new home and renewed hope for his future.

Kaitlin's Story

Kaitlin's Story

Kaitlin was given a placement in Supported Lodgings after she became homeless following a family breakdown. Typically, these placements are not funded after 18 years old, but Kaitlin was offered an extended placement at a critical point in her education.

Lydia's Story

Lydia's Story

Lydia came to Step by Step after both her parents passed away. Devastated and alone, Lydia needed a stable place to live as well as a great deal of compassion and support. She wanted to live in a family environment, so our Supported Lodgings Service was the perfect fit.

Will's Story

Will's Story

Will became homeless after escaping an abusive relationship. Step by Step was able to give him a place in a Supported Independence Flat, meaning he would live largely independently but with the support to work towards his goals and aspirations.

Brayden's Story

Brayden's Story

Brayden became homeless after leaving the care system. He drank heavily and was putting himself in dangerous situations. Our Drugs and Alcohol Recovery service was able to help him get back on track.

Amy's Story

Amy's Story

Amy was supported by our Launch advice and information service when she became homeless following a family breakdown. The Launch support workers helped her find a safe place to live and assisted her in finding work.

London's Story

London's Story

When London was referred to Step by Step, she was considered a young person with very high needs. Alongside a stable place to live, she received dedicated support tailored to her needs and slowly she started to overcome her anxiety.

Harry's Story

Harry's Story

Like many young people leaving the care system, Harry suddenly found himself on his own and with nowhere to go. He was homeless at 19 years old when he was referred to our Supported Lodgings service.