Jonas* moved into a foyer for young people after a childhood of neglect.

His mum was an alcoholic and often didn’t feed him. She couldn’t help him get ready in the mornings and as such he regularly missed school. He had lots of problems with his mum’s partners and was often a victim of violence.

Jonas had little confidence when he arrived and his dyslexia made some things a struggle. But with support, he found a full time job. He learnt how to budget more effectively, and agreed to a support plan budget that helped him to look after himself and his supported accommodation.

He was eventually able to find his own independent tenancy, but it was an unfurnished, bare general needs flat. Church Homeless Trust provided a resettlement grant and he bought a new cooker, carpets, and linoleum flooring to help him settle in.

Jonas was excited but admitted that it is scary moving, especially from a part furnished property to a flat that is bare of everything, including carpets. The money helped him purchase some essential basics and move on with more confidence.

*Name changed for privacy