Sade’s story

Sade finally had the keys to her future, but she still had nothing to sleep on. Why move-on support matters for young people at risk of homelessness

Date published

09/07/25

Across the UK, thousands of young people leave supported housing every year, ready to take the next step into independence. But for many, that step is blocked by an invisible barrier: the cost of moving in.

No flooring. No furniture. No bedding. Even after securing a flat, these practical hurdles can stop young people from truly moving on.

This is where LandAid’s Routes Out of Homelessness fund makes a difference, offering fast, flexible financial support that bridges the gap between housing and home.

This is the story of Sade, an 18-year-old from Blackburn, and the final hurdle she overcame to begin her new life.

Sade’s journey to independence

Sade had already achieved something extraordinary.

After more than a year at the Blackburn and Darwen Foyer, supported by dedicated staff and her social worker, she had built the confidence and stability needed to move into social housing. Her time at the Foyer helped her grow in self-worth and direction.

She’d been accepted for a flat. She was ready to leave supported accommodation behind.

But when she got the keys, she found herself staring at an empty space. No carpets. No essentials. No funds to make it livable.

It was a crushing moment. The excitement of independence was replaced with uncertainty and anxiety.

A grant with a lasting impact

Through our Routes Out of Homelessness funding, LandAid was able to step in quickly.
A small grant helped Sade:

• Carpet her new flat, making it warm and safe
• Purchase essential furniture, including a bed
• Start her next chapter with dignity and security

What might seem like a small intervention became a turning point in Sade’s life.

Sade has gained self-worth and confidence since being at the Foyer. She has worked extremely hard with staff and outside agencies to combat her difficulties and reach some of her personal goals. The grant from LandAid has been extremely helpful and has given her the best start in life in her new home.

Staff member, Blackburn and Darwen Foyer

The property sector’s role in long-term change

Securing a flat is not the end of a young person’s housing journey. It is the beginning. Without the tools to live independently, too many risk falling back into homelessness or unsafe conditions.

That is why LandAid partners with the property and built environment sector:

To unlock empty spaces
To fund practical support
To help create long-term solutions for young people at risk of homelessness

The Routes Out of Homelessness funding is a clear example of how targeted support, backed by sector investment, can drive real change.

Support the final step

With your support, we can help more young people like Sade turn their housing into a real home.

Learn more about our grants

Through our grants we help provide homes, jobs and skills to thousands of young people 16-25 who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

Routes Out of Homelessness Grant Programmes

Young people’s stories

LandAid supports charities across the UK who give young people experiencing homelessness the lifeline that they so desperately need.

Young people’s stories

Support our mission

By becoming a corporate partner, donating your professional expertise or fundraising for LandAid, you will play a vital role in providing homes, jobs and skills for young people experiencing homelessness, giving them the foundations to grow.

Support our mission