Man Credits Charity for Crucial Support During Teenage Homelessness

Adam, who received assistance from a charity after experiencing homelessness as a teenager during the Christmas period, stated that without such aid, he would have been “out on the streets or even worse.” In 2022, Adam resided with Nightsafe in Blackburn over the festive season, having been left without a stable residence due to family circumstances. Supported by funding from BBC Children In Need and additional donations to Nightsafe, Adam has since been directed to a housing initiative and has developed greater independence. He remarked that his “future looks a lot brighter.” Adam commented, “There are things that could’ve happened to me, I wouldn’t have wanted to happen. This place helped me a lot.” His initial arrival at Nightsafe occurred a week prior to Christmas in 2022. He explained, “I stayed for Christmas and New Year and that’s the most critical time because it’s so cold,” adding, “And the fact that people struggle being alone at Christmas.” The charity’s efforts extend beyond the shelter itself. Staff members and volunteers also transport residents to a nearby country park for therapeutic outdoor activity sessions. Jane Wadsworth, a senior support worker at Nightsafe Blackburn, stated that she provided care for Adam when he initially came to the centre. She noted, “Adam has been with us for two years nearly, he stayed in the night shelter and I looked after him then.” Wadsworth continued, “He’s in one of our housing projects, but he also comes down to the day centre to let us know how he is going on.” Wadsworth added, “We’ve talked a little bit about depression, whilst we’ve been out amongst nature and how much better we’re all feeling for just for being there.” She emphasized, “Without the funding we can’t do these things.” Adam reiterated, “If it wasn’t for this place I’d be out on the streets or even worse.” He concluded, “Now I am much, much happier in where I am now, the future looks a lot brighter than it did before.” For more content, listeners can access the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on platforms such as Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk or by Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.