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Mia Hayden, 24
“There was pressure to stay where I was, but where I was wasn’t safe. My family felt I had chosen to be homeless, which heightened my depression and anxiety. I felt like I was doing something wrong by trying to protect myself.” When her family moved abroad, Mia* initially went with them, before challenging circumstances […]
Shannon Kim Beecher, 23
Up until her sixth birthday, Shannon and her brother had lived in the care system. She settled in West Norwood after her adoptive parents, having originally planned on adopting one child, took in both siblings. But growing up for six years uncertain, unstable, and confused had eroded Shannon’s mental health and sense of self-worth. When […]
Andrew Sharrow, 19
Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic families have been put under increased strain. Living spaces that were questionably small before, have become claustrophobic with the addition of lockdown measures. For Andrew, this has meant spending almost all his time in a two-bedroom apartment that he shared with his brother and mother. While struggling to contend with the […]
Gabe Purcill, 17
2020 was undoubtedly challenging for many people living in London, but for Gabe it’s been more than that. It’s been a test of character, confidence and strength which led Gabe to leaving his abusive family home during lockdown, after it all became too much. “It always felt toxic, but it got to a point where […]
CJ, 18
When you mention music, CJ comes alive. It’s that one thing that brings him the most joy in life. “I want to produce something that’s broadcast to thousands of people in films, on TV or through the radio. I just want my music to be heard.” CJ came to Evolve in September 2020 after a […]
Joe Talbot, 22
“I’ve been a victim of abuse my entire life and lockdown led me to leaving.” In 2020, Joe’s home life worsened. Having endured years of abuse at the hands of their mother, things only worsened when the pandemic meant Joe couldn’t escape their abuser. “The pandemic meant both me and my mum were home all […]
Manny, Handyman
How lockdown led to a music studio for young people experiencing homelessness At the end of 2019, Manwell started working as a handyman at Evolve’s homelessness service for young people. Being a former singer, the first thing that caught Manwell’s attention, or Manny as he’s more fondly known to residents, was the interest young residents […]
