Real Lives - Tom's Story

Tom came to YMCA Cornwall after being housed in unsuitable temporary accommodation used for prison leavers and people with drug addiction problems, he was just 20.

Everything changed when he came to YMCA Cornwall

After an initial assessment from our housing team, Tom was moved into our shared accommodation, which helped him adjust and gave him safety and stability. When a self contained flat became available Tom moved into it.

Our Supported housing officers worked one-to-one with Tom to help teach him basic life skills – how to cook, budget for shopping, pay bills, and manage his day-to-day responsibilities as well as help him to gain his qualifications.

Becoming the man he was always meant to be

YMCA Cornwall staff have been amazing, especially my support working Kim. They have helped me learn to become the man I was always meant to be. Tom.

Tom is now working towards gaining his Care Certificate and has a job interview for a role as a Care Worker. We are so proud of Tom and how he has flourished.

Our mission is that “Everyone should have a fair chance to discover who they are and what they can become.”

We don’t just offer housing, we offer support, encouragement, safety and guidance so that all young people can belong, contribute and thrive.