Abu

Life at home for Abu, 19, was troubled; some traumatic experiences led to difficult relationships between family members, and Abu was eventually asked to leave home. He found himself homeless. He began attending New Horizon Youth Centre and got involved with a number of the services there, such as the centre’s independent living skills workshops and Employment, Education and Training work. He started building up work experience, developing his CV and looking for jobs. However, his unstable living situation made securing employment difficult. When a place opened up in the charity’s own accommodation, though, Abu was able to move in. He received support from them with learning to cook and pay bills, and managing his benefits. He also found a support network in his new housemates. Learning to live independently in his new home, he was able to focus his energy on finding work, and after a very competitive process he has now secured a prestigious apprenticeship in business administration, which he hopes will lead to a career.