15/10/2026
…… then things got even harder…...
When Ben* first came to us a year ago, a young man not even 25 years old, he was exhausted, and completely overwhelmed. A breakdown at home meant he was suddenly rough sleeping and sofa surfing. His mental health had spiralled, and he was struggling to keep work going.
We helped him get the documents he needed to the council, supported him to apply for Universal Credit, and made sure the council understood how urgent his situation was. He was placed into temporary accommodation — and for a while, things seemed stable.
But - ten months later, Ben walked back through our door. Back rough sleeping. Back sofa surfing. Still trying his best.
We talked about his mental health, substance use, and what he wanted for his future. He told us he wanted, and he knew he needed, supported accommodation — somewhere structured, safe and designed for young people like him, with actual support on hand. Appropriate accommodation like this takes time. We booked appointments, completed referrals together, and made sure he had food while we waited for the wheels to turn.
His engagement wasn’t perfect. He missed an important appointment for supported accommodation and Ben was terrified he’d blown his chance. But he owned it, apologised, and kept trying. We reassured him that he hadn’t lost his opportunity — he just needed to show up, consistently and with purpose.
Then things got even harder. Ben suffered a seizure and was admitted to hospital. We advocated for him with the council, making sure they understood how urgent his housing situation had become. He was placed back into temporary accommodation the same day he was discharged from hospital, whilst we applied for the supported accommodation he needed.
A few days later, another seizure. Another ambulance.
Five days after the second seizure — a breakthrough. Ben was offered an assessment for supported accommodation, and we went with him. He smashed it. He walked out hopeful for the first time in over a year.
Shortly after, he was offered a room. A safe place. A fresh start. With support.
We helped him prepare for the move, arranged white goods, and provided a £50 Aldi voucher. We handed over everything to his new key worker so he can continue getting the support he needs.
💙 Ben is now settling into his new home and rebuilding his life with dignity.💚
💙 Want to help more young people like Ben?
💚 Join Five to Thrive — our community of regular givers who make stories like this possible.
💙 Your support helps young people move from crisis to stability, one step at a time.
💚 🔗 in the first comment.
AI image and name has been changed to protect the identity of our client.
