“When I first arrived at NHYC, I didn’t have a job, a place to stay, or even a clear goal to pursue. However, everything started to change when I stepped into the centre. They helped me turn my life around in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
“They found me a place to stay, supported me with everything I needed, and even helped me secure a job. With their guidance, I also enrolled in college and began working towards my education while holding down a full-time job to keep myself busy and productive.
“One of the highlights of my time with the centre was the weekly football activity every Thursday (FC Hope) and the amazing tour of the Arsenal stadium. I enjoyed every moment and appreciated all the opportunities they gave me.
“I started my first job at a big coffee chain, and New Horizon supported me with essentials like travel and work clothes. They also helped with my college enrolment, where I completed my GCSEs in Math and English, passing both exams successfully. The following year, I began studying accounting and bookkeeping, which I have completed.
“After gaining experience and confidence, I felt ready for a change. The centre helped me secure an office job at a law firm, where I worked for 1 year and 10 months. This role allowed me to gain valuable experience and develop my professional skills further.
“At one point, I faced a significant challenge. While living in Acton, the landlord asked me to leave because of planned construction work, leaving me nowhere to go. I searched tirelessly through websites like Spare Room, Space Let, and Zoopla, but finding a new place was incredibly difficult. Once again, I turned to New Horizon for help.
“Michelle [accommodation project worker] from the centre stepped in and found me a wonderful place in West London. It’s a modern, well-maintained building with an ensuite room where I had my own private space, including a bathroom. The facilities were excellent, and the environment was clean and comfortable—a true blessing that made a big difference in my life.
“During this time, I also secured the position I had been striving for: Junior Accountant in the finance department. Although it was a two-month contract to gain experience, it was a step in the right direction. Now that the contract has ended, I am actively looking for my next opportunity to grow and succeed.
“My journey has been filled with challenges, but with the incredible support from New Horizon, I have overcome them and achieved milestones I once thought were out of reach.”
New Horizon Youth Centre is here for any young person, like Daniel, who finds themselves pushed into homelessness in London.
With your help, we can give them the chance to realise the next chapter of their lives. Donate now and help open up a New Horizon for young people experiencing homelessness.
New Chance, New Chapter, New Horizon.
*The story is true and quotes are directly from a young person who attends New Horizon Youth Centre, but the name and photo have been changed to protect their identity.
