Malia was made homeless at just 16 years old. She had been moving between her mum and dad for some time and their relationships had broken down to the point where she had no-where to go.
I was lucky enough that one of my friends and her family took me in because I had no idea about anything, I didn’t know where to go.Malia
Malia approached the local council and was referred to her local youth homelessness charity and LandAid partner, End Youth Homelessness, Aberdeen Foyer. She had recently began working as an apprentice at an engineering firm which she loved, so before long she moved into supported accommodation at Aberdeen Foyer.
Her support worker at Aberdeen Foyer helped her apply to a local housing association and was successful in securing a flat! One problem was that she was required to pay the first month’s rent upfront, which she was worried about being able to afford on apprenticeship wages and on top of making her current rent payments.
Luckily, the End Youth Homelessness Housing Fund was able to cover the cost of her first month’s rent, and also helped cover some of the refurbishment costs to keep the flat warm for winter and feel like home.
Malia had never lived in a space that wasn’t temporary before, so was incredibly happy to receive this support. She received new carpets and furniture as shown below. She’s still doing really well in her job, is really happy in her flat and has recently reconnected with her mum.
Everyone needs help from time to time. It does get better, you just have to ask. Because I always struggled and didn’t know how to ever ask for help. But now I have so much support in my life, I don’t know what to do with it!Malia