Jack’s Story from Foyer Housing to studying full-time and working part-time

Jack’s story with the Foyer starts with Housing. He had relocated back to Aberdeen after living in South of England with his father and stepbrother with youngers siblings. Jack had lost his mum at a young age and struggled with his family relationship and dynamics. He self-medicated with alcohol and other substances. To fix his situation, he moved up to Aberdeen, where he has a brother, to start his life again.

Jack secured employment and private housing. Unfortunately he struggled in his job: he felt he was given too much responsibility and too little help. Jack lost his job, soon after his home and had to declare himself homeless with the council. He was placed in temporary accommodation and then with Aberdeen Foyer.

Jack was also referred to Foyer Futures. He met with this Development coach and they drafted a plan of next steps. This included meeting once per week to discuss his future in employment and education, contacting his GP to discuss his mental health and substance abuse, and attending Drop-in sessions with Alcohol Drug Action. Jack remembers being overwhelmed:

“It was a lot. I was trying to adjust but I don’t think I was always in the right headspace. I think I would be more receptive now.“

Jack also tried the Prince’s Trust Programme but found it too hard to commit five times a week. He did however do multiple lessons with Roadwise via The Foyer Young Driver Programme.

Jack was able to move into rented accommodation with the help of Housing’s Outreach team. He is enrolled in college full-time, continues to work part-time and enjoys living with his girlfriend and their two cats.