A YOUNG Stockton man has told delegates at the Conservative Party conference how his life was turned around by Bridge House Hostel
After many problems throughout this teens – including spells behind bars – now has a job and ambitions to own his own home.
The Service user spoke about how his life had changed at a fringe meeting organised by the Centre for Social Justice at this weeks Conservative Party conference in Birmingham.
The Service user said,
” I was excited and buzzing at the prospect of speaking at the meeting. I got to tell my story and it went well.”
The Service user told the meeting that he was homeless at 14, he did not go into care and lived by sleeping on friends couches or sleeping rough. He did not go to school and said I dont think anyone cared. He drifted into crime and got his first ASBO when he was 15. He managed to abide by the ASBO and keep out of trouble for almost three years but when he was 18 he was jailed for theft and damage. The Service user told the meeting he was shocked and scared at first but he quickly made friends inside the prison.
“I did some education, got to go on a Playstation and I learned how to roll fags. I had a warm bed, had three meals a day and was with my mates. I still didnt like being there though and thought I had learned my lesson after I got out. I promised I wasnt going to commit crime again but unfortunately I did and went back inside just a few months later.”
He told the meeting,
“When I was released I went into supported accommodation at Bridge House. With their support I have been trying to get a job and to finally change my life around. Being in supported accommodation has definitely made a difference and so has the really close relationship I have with the guys at Bridge House. They haven’t given up on me. I have just got a job so my next dream is to one day own my own place.”
The Service user stole the show. His speech was exceptionally well received.
It was a powerful, honest and moving account of his life so far.
He was confident and was a fabulous ambassador for Bridge House.
