Coley is nearly 20 and lives in a Sanctuary Supported Living home in Hartlepool which is accommodation and support for young people aged 16 to 25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Coley become estranged from his family and didn’t have any friends to turn to for support.
Since moving into his new home in 2018, he believes “It’s completely changed my way of life. I was really keen to find ways to improve my health and meet new people, so I started using the on-site gym and games room. Exercise makes me feel good and is helping me to lose weight. I like that I can listen to my music and have time on my own in the gym”.
“I also swim with a friend at a local pool and take part in table tennis tournaments with other residents”.
“Things are looking really positive for me – I’ve started speaking to some of my family again and I’m planning a holiday with them. I’d like to become a chef and take part in some work experience in the kitchen of a Sanctuary Care home soon”.
What does supported housing mean to him? Coley said “I never went out and I didn’t have any friends. Now, I’ve made friends with other residents and I get on well with everyone”.
“I wouldn’t like to think where I’d be now if I hadn’t moved into supported housing”.
“I’m settled and I’ve become independent since being here. I have a good laugh with my key worker, I can speak to her about anything and I’m happy with how the staff support me”.
