Casey is smart, vibrant and charming with an impressive determination that we know will see them go far. Currently, studying creative media, they have already delivered their maiden speech in the House of Lords and become one of our client ambassadors – using their experience to guide others in similar situations, as well as being a voice for the 136,000 young people at risk of homelessness.
But just a couple of years ago Casey was sleeping rough on night buses after a family breakdown, trying to find somewhere safe to get some rest.
When they finally found us, they thought we would be just like all the other services, a brief assessment followed by vague promises and referrals.
“I wasn’t expecting to be offered accommodation,” Casey said: “No other service had done that before. All they did was refer me elsewhere or put me on a waiting list.
“In less than a week, I went from uncertainty to having a place to stay, and I couldn’t be more thankful,” they say.
Once Casey moved in, their first impressions were overwhelmingly positive: “The staff at Depaul UK were very open, even something as little as asking for your pronouns, no other services would ask that as much. The staff made an effort to use ‘they/them’ for me, correcting themselves if they made a mistake. This attention to detail made me feel truly welcomed.”
Since settling into their new home, Casey has embraced the support provided. They’ve worked with a progression coach on their CV, spent time thinking about careers, and represented Depaul UK at all kinds of events – from taking part in media interviews, giving a speech in the House of Lords calling on the government to end youth homelessness, attending fundraising dinners, and working with the communications team to create and produce content.
As Casey moves forward with their life, they aim to use their skills in graphic design, photography, communication, branding, and marketing to raise awareness about important issues. Influenced by the contemporary artist Wolfgang Tillmans, they hope to incorporate social themes into their work to make an impact. You can view Casey’s final college multimedia project, exploring hidden homelessness, by visiting our Facebook page.
Their positive experience with our staff has really motivated them to get involved and give back. “I realised that the staff were not just doing their jobs, they were genuinely passionate about helping others. And I would also like to help others in similar situations. I would like to help guide them through it.”
To other young people experiencing homelessness or hesitant to seek help, Casey’s advice is simple ‘don’t give up’.
“There are many avenues to explore, and persistence is key,” Casey says: “Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek help, especially if you’re in a dangerous situation. Take action early and explore all available options.
