My name is Tom*. I arrived at the Ferry Project in 2020. I had a number of support needs and was easily led astray. I had taken part in criminal activity and was on probation.

I regularly met with my key worker and signed up to the Ferry Project's employment programme, where I gained important skills to prepare me for the workplace.

However, I had a relative living nearby who soon disrupted my progress. This person would visit often and we would always argue. When my key worker asked about this, I assured them that I was enjoying spending time with my family.

In May 2021, I decided to move in with my relative.

Then, two months later, I returned to Ferry Project in a terrible state. My relative was violent, demanded a lot of rent, and drug addicts used the home as a place to take drugs. I felt like a prisoner in my own home, so I fled and returned to Ferry Project. They gave me food and a hot drink and contacted the police who collected my belongings, and I moved back into Clarkson House.

My first few months back were fraught with fear of my relative coming to attack me, but over time I settled and began to feel safe once more. I regularly met with my key workers and probation officers, attended all my appointments, and I soon found stability in a regular routine. I engaged well with Ferry Project's employment programme once more, and began attending counselling.

In October, I started to fall into old habits, where I was lying to staff and involving myself with old ‘friends’. Ferry Project challenged my behaviour, and this time I heeded thier warnings and agreed to change my ways.

I am proud that I managed to stick to my promise. I have now completed my probation, undertaken a range of training to help me find work, and have successfully moved into social housing where I now live independently.

Ferry Project still offers me support from time to time. Thank you for all your help.

*Name changed for anonymity