Aldershot Open Day
7 March 2026
Young People Stories
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. Unfortunately, he struggled to express his emotions as he could only speak a few words of English when he first arrived.
Step by Step placed Kaleb into Supported Lodgings, offering him a more family-like structure as he missed his family back home so much. He was initially offered an emergency bed placement for 3 weeks. During his short stay he connected well with his first host, who has kept in touch with him and given him the opportunity to travel to lots of interesting places around the UK.
A kind and polite young man, Kaleb consistently makes a good impression on the Supported Lodgings hosts he’s lived with. They have all commented on how considerate and capable he is and how much they’ve enjoyed getting to know him. With the help of Step by Step Kaleb has turned his life around. No longer a scared 17 year old, new to the country and suffering nightmares from his experiences, Kaleb is now a confident, educated young man ready to live independently.
After two years on English for Speakers of Other Languages courses and lots of hard work, Kaleb was able to pass his maths and English GCSEs and has started a business course at a local college. A year ago, he was granted 5 years leave to remain, meaning he is able to work. He quickly secured a part-time job in a supermarket and is now balancing that with his studies. Kaleb has made good friends at college and work, and his manager is impressed with his customer service skills.
In addition to his personal successes, Kaleb has a kind nature and is always eager to support other newcomers to our service and act as a mentor.
Now safe and supported, Kaleb has been able to think of his goals for the future. He told us, "I am really happy and excited for my future." He hopes to pass his driving test and go to university to study business further. Everyone who knows Kaleb knows that if he continues to commit to his studies like he has been, he will be well on his way. He is also desperate to find his family again, with help from the Red Cross, and everyone at Step by Step hopes that he is successful in this.
*Name changed to respect privacy
We welcome the Government announcement of a new comprehensive homelessness strategy, including £3.5 billion investment over the next three years.
But its success will depend upon how much it offers a joined-up approach and a clear route from homelessness to independent living.
