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Independent Futures, part of Devon & Cornwall Housing, has eight young people’s projects in Cornwall which provide 79 young people with accommodation and support to help tackle their individual problems. If these young people didn’t live in these projects many would be homeless today.
The awards ceremony rewarded 26 young people who have turned their lives around whilst living in theses projects. They were recognised for the progress they have made in many areas, from achieving qualifications to taking responsibility for life skills
Lady Mary Holborow, Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, along with the High Sheriff of Cornwall, Rob Cooper from the Multi Safe Guarding Board, Suzette Crossman West Cornwall Team Manager and BBC Radio Cornwall, all presented the certificates to the young people in Cornwall.
Lady Mary Holborow said; “Events like this is what really matters, to recognise the achievements of young people who haven’t had an easy time in life, and who have managed to turn their lives around with the support and encouragement of the foyer staff members. By doing this they have gained a better life for themselves and in turn this helps Cornwall. I am very proud to be here”.
Brian, 22, a resident at Carn Brea move on accommodation said; “Before I came to the foyer I was street homeless. The foyer has helped me incredibly for the time I have been here as I used to have nothing until the foyer let me move in. I used to be estranged from my parents but thanks to the support at the project we have patched things up and moved on”.
Sammy, 19, has lived at Truro foyer for nine months because she could no longer live at home. Staff at the foyer have supported Sammy through some difficult personal issues and helped her to deal with a recent bereavement. The foyer has encouraged Sammy to gain volunteer experience which increased her confidence. She said; “The foyer has shown me that there is light at the end of the tunnel”.
Suzette Crossman, West Cornwall Team Manager, talked about how valuable it is being a part of a scheme that makes a difference to young people’s lives. She said; “It’s not just young people that benefit from our work at the foyer, we encourage people of all ages to mix together. We have a sheltered housing scheme for older people across the road and the young residents have started computer buddying with them on a weekly basis. This means the younger residents go round and show the older residents some techniques on how to use a computer, this links generations together. Both younger and older residents get so much enjoyment out of working together”.
The ceremony was a huge success. Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant, based in Cornwall, did the catering for the event which was a real treat.
Andrew Noquet, Young People's Service Manager said; “All the young people’s achievements give a powerful message about the success of our foyers and young people’s projects. Even though times are uncertain at present with the funding cuts the hard work and dedication from the residents and staff shows a real commitment and I am so proud of everyone”.
