Edward writes about overcoming his turbulent childhood, working as a Desktop Engineer, and moving in with his partner. Read his story:
I’m Edward, I was born in the Gambia and came to Bristol when I was 6. I grew up with just my dad and seven older sisters. As the only boy, I was just left to my own devices.
When I was 14, my dad sadly passed away and I was sent back to the Gambia. I was causing all sorts of mayhem there until I came back to the UK at 16. When I got back to the UK, I wasn’t put in any education and was again left to my own devices.
At 18, I became involved with the local Youth Work Team. I did a 6-month employability course, got into rugby and started being more social. I went on to start my IT apprenticeship.
“I was really surprised at how positive the experience was.”
It was all moving in the right direction until I was evicted at 21 years old. I quickly had to find somewhere to stay, so I went to the council, and they referred me to 1625 Independent People. I did an interview and was able to get a place with them.
I was really surprised at how positive the experience was. As soon as I queried my situation with the council it was a really quick turnaround. I lived at 1625ip supported accommodation for around 8 months and that’s where I met Kay.
Me and Kay were looking for private rented accommodation, and it was a nightmare. You’ve got to put down a deposit and pay your first month’s rent upfront – it’s a huge chunk of money, especially if you haven’t got that saved up. We were being asked for £2,000 before we even moved in so the help was like a godsend. If it wasn’t for EveryYouth Homed helping us with the rent deposit, it would have been pretty difficult to move anywhere.
Since completing my IT apprenticeship, I was offered full-time employment and I still work there as a Desktop Engineer. I’m looking to do the next Level 4 qualification next month and just keep progressing.
If any young people are in a similar situation to the one I was in, ask for as much help as you can. I know you want to be independent and do things on your own, but if you ask for help and learn from the people around you, you will go much further.
