Appeal update - James’s story

Photo: Staff making a bed for a new resident in our hostel.

In February 2021 James* was living at the Centre. He wrote in our Lent appeal about the difficult time that had led to him living in the hostel. Now, 15 months later he shares how much his life has changed:

Written by James

Before I came here I had been abused, so I was always on edge and didn’t trust people. I didn't really look after myself because I didn't care about my life. I just thought, ‘It's already bad so it can only get worse.’

It makes me feel good that someone acknowledges I'm doing better.

For a while because I was thinking ‘Why am I in a hostel?’ and I was really isolating myself.

Now two years later, I've moved into Basil Hume House. It's next to hostel, but I have a studio flat with a bedroom, my own kitchen and living room, and my own toilet and shower. The only thing I share is the washing machine and dryer with four other people. I prefer the flat, it's more independent, and I've always tried to be independent.

My keyworker is Malcolm. It's a good relationship now, we talk about things that aren't just living in the hostel. He also held me accountable for looking after my room, and it makes me feel good that someone acknowledges I'm doing better. I've been able to let go of being wary of people. Now I'm alot more relaxed.  I cut my hair, I do my laundry regularly and I'm bettering myself as a person.

My advice for my 19 year old self: ‘Talk more.’ You have to see these people you live with in a hostel everyday. So share with them and be nice to them, try to build relationships. Don't be shy to talk to people if you need help. Accept that you might not be moving out straight away. When you come here, it's like self-discovery, learning how to do things for yourself.

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*Name changed to protect his identity

Photo credits: Fergus Burnett Photography

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Last year, 25 young people moved on successfully from the hostel.