Nick’s story

From sofa surfing to a home of his own, why LandAid’s flexible, well-targeted grants changed everything for Nick.

Date published

08/09/25

Nick, 22, moved into Bath Foyer, part of CURO Housing, in March 2022 after facing difficult circumstances at home and a period of sofa surfing. Living with a learning disability that affects both his verbal and physical communication, the move was overwhelming at first.

Nick’s mother had always taken charge of many of his affairs, and although well-meaning, this unintentionally limited his independence. Determined to prove he could manage on his own, Nick was hesitant to ask for help. But this led to challenges, including rent arrears and council debts.

Nick began to build stability

Staff at Bath Foyer recognised the importance of empowering Nick rather than stepping in to do things for him. Over time, they developed a strong and positive relationship. With their support, Nick gradually resolved his debts and began to build the confidence to take the next steps in his life.

Work played a crucial role in this progress. Nick had already been employed at Kingswood School for five years, and the stability of a regular income, combined with the sense of belonging and pride it gave him, became a cornerstone of his resilience. He enjoys earning money to spend on social activities and watching live sport, everyday pleasures that signal a return to normality.

The challenges of moving on

Although Nick valued his time at Bath Foyer, he longed for a home of his own. He had identified a flat in with the space he wanted a separate bedroom, living room, and kitchen. But finding and securing private rented accommodation was far from straightforward.

Agents were often unresponsive, guarantor requirements excluded him, and the stigma sometimes attached to young people with experience of homelessness created further barriers. For many young people like Nick, these practical obstacles can make the final step to independence the hardest one.

The turning point came when Nick viewed a flat with an agent who was considerate and a landlord who was understanding of his journey through Bath Foyer. Suddenly, independence felt within reach but the upfront costs still stood in the way.

That’s when Nick applied to the Moving On Up Fund funded by LandAid grants. The grant helped him cover rent in advance and clear debts, costs he could not have managed alone.

With this support, Nick successfully moved out of Bath Foyer and into his own private rented home.

Looking ahead

Today, Nick is settled in his new flat. He is continuing his job, maintaining his independence, and enjoying the everyday routines of community life.

The Foyer were really helpful. I am feeling excited about the future

Nick

Nick’s journey shows how the right support at the right time can transform a young person’s future. His story reflects the wider outcomes that sit at the heart of the LandAid Impact Framework, knowing where to go for advice, feeling safer and more confident, being part of a community, and achieving financial independence.

Through grants funded by the property industry, LandAid helps local partners like CURO Housing provide these opportunities, giving young people across the UK genuine foundations to grow.

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