DRUGS - BREAKDOWN, HOMELESSNESS - OFFENDING - ALIENATION

BREAKING THE CYCLE OF HOMELESSNESS

Years spent in care can often lead to further years without a real home. Adullam provides a supportive environment where people can begin moving towards greater independence.

Many of Adullam's projects for the homeless, are places where residents can work through any difficulties they may have with the support of project staff. In the end Adullam seeks to equip its residents with the skills and the confidence needed for independent living.

Residents usually come to Adullam feeling hopeless, deflated, and uncertain of the future. After receiving the help they need through tailored support plans, it is no surprise to find that residents have expressed surprise and delight at finding friendship and support amongst staff and other residents.

"I have a friend that lives at the project who, like me, has a young baby. She lives next door to me at the project and we get on really well together."

Life Skills

Every young person receives the support they need, with key workers there to help in a variety of ways. This is essential at a time when self-confidence can be low and existing skills forgotten.

The needs of young homeless people coming into Adullam are many and varied. Some skills are, however, essential tools for independent living in the future, such as budgeting, literacy, cooking, healthy lifestyles and the ability to relate to others.

Peoples' views of themselves are an important factors in shaping their future. Adullam seeks to create an environment where confidence can increase.

"It is important for everyone to have a feeling of self-worth, self-acceptance and self-knowledge. Before people tackle issues such as cooking and budgeting, they need to be confident enough. The days out have been particularly helpful, you get to know the staff and residents a bit more. I've got a more positive attitude towards life and IÕve grown up a little bit too."

Equipping for the future

Each person is encouraged to look to the future, make plans and equip themselves to achieve them.

"At the moment I am going to John Moores Opportunities College. I am studying computers and eventually I would like to manage my own restaurant."

It is clear that without this support, the future of many homeless people, particularly teenagers, would be bleak. Adullam is seeking to help its residents on their journey to independence, as they learn new skills, but above all receive that support which is relevant to their particular needs.

"If I was to give advice in recommending people to come here, I would say that if people want to better themselves then it is a good place to come, but if they just want to come to mess around then they will not go out any better. Here they can get the support they need."