Mustafa’s story 

I was sleeping outside, sometimes under a bridge. It was cold and wet, and I didn’t feel safe. Not only because I was outside, but because I didn’t know where to find a place or shelter that felt safe. So, I kept moving around. Every few nights, I would try somewhere new, even though I knew that it probably wouldn’t be any safer.

Sleeping on the streets for eight months passed so slowly. It sometimes felt like there was no end in sight. No way to get clean, no food, just endless walking through the night. I tried to avoid places where people were fighting and screaming, but you never really know what each place will be like until you get there.

Then I came to Your Place. It felt so good to finally come off the streets. It was such a relief.

I was shy when I arrived here, but I can feel that I’m getting more confident. I take pride in my room; keeping my space clean and tidy is important to me. I’ve made friends here, which has made a big difference. It’s helping me feel more at home, so I know that I’m not facing everything on my own anymore.

Natalie, my key worker, has helped me so much. I want to thank her for everything she’s done. Whenever I need help with something, she is there for me.

I’ve enrolled in college and have done a barista training programme, so I can now make really good coffee. The job coach at Your Place helped me write my CV, and it feels good that I can show everything I’ve done since being here – all the skills and experiences I’ve gained, including volunteering at the food bank.

Now I go to the gym regularly and play football every Friday night. I also love to read at the library, it’s like another quiet space where I can clear my head. I don’t know exactly what I am going to do next so having the time to think is helpful – I’ve been thinking about training as either a mechanic or a plumber as I think it’s something I could do well.

I also really enjoy cooking. People often tell me I’m good at it, and it feels great when I’m cooking and people gather round to ask what it is, because it smells and looks so tasty. Maybe I can take my barista training and go into hospitality for my career! Natalie has said that it’s my decision to make, and I know she will support me no matter which path I choose.