REAL LIFE: Stephen embraces new opportunities

 

YMCA Norfolk Supported Lodgings Worker, Denise Hunter explained: “Stephen was understandably cross with the world and believed that nothing good would ever happen to him.

 

“The first time Stephen moved into Supported Lodgings with Anne, things did not work out as everyone hoped they would. He drifted along and would not engage with the learning opportunities, training courses available or the life skills that Anne could offer. He moved out to stay with a friend.

 

“About a year later, after some unpleasant times and finding himself homeless again, Stephen came back to us,” explained Denise. “Stephen had a different attitude and was ready for change. Anne agreed to give it a second try.

 

“Stephen embraced the opportunities available and began to thrive. He was prepared to give anything a go and took Maths and English courses and a six-month work placement. He was up each morning, motivated and ready for the day with his packed lunch which he had prepared the night before.”

 

Anne said: “This time, Stephen’s attitude had changed and he would stay home more often and even begin to cook. When I went away, I trusted Stephen to look after the house, knowing that he could be relied upon.

 

“I always tried to accept Stephen and his difficulties and he was happy to discuss them with me. He enjoyed his place on a work course and it gave his confidence a real boost. Denise was also a constant and positive influence in Stephen’s life and always put effort, care and thought into his life. Over the time he was with me he grew into a responsible, confident young man who had earnt our love and respect.”

 

A year later and Stephen was ready to move into his own flat.

 

“Now he is moving into a flat I will miss him and he will be a hard act to follow,” said Anne. He was a delight and pleasure to know and he will always have a place in my heart.”

 

Denise agrees: “I know without a doubt that Stephen has felt he had a home with Anne, somewhere he truly belonged, somewhere he could be accepted, encouraged to contribute and in doing so found a new self-confidence and self-belief. I feel proud to have been part of this wonderful young man’s journey into adulthood.

 

Stephen appreciates the help he has been given: “I just wanted to say a massive thank you for everything that Denise and Anne have done for me. It has been amazing and I wouldn’t have been able to get where I am today if it wasn’t for both of them.

 

“Anne has influenced me to grow into the person I am today, which I am very proud of. I’ll always be ever so grateful for everything and I’m going to miss her dearly and especially our chats. Anne was the person who I’d ask if I wasn’t sure what to do and she always listened and understood me and offered me a stable home. Anne is a fantastic person who I wish the very best for.”