Hope’s Story

Written by Hope (name changed to protect identity) for an internal writing competition which she won.

In 2023, at just 16 years old, I became a mum to a beautiful boy. Becoming a parent so young changed my life completely. From that moment, my little boy became my whole world, and I knew I had to grow up quickly and become the best mum I could for him.

For a while, I was passed around the system while fighting some of the hardest battles of my life. Despite everything I was going through, I always tried to give my son the childhood he deserved. We went swimming, to play areas, zoos, parks and so many other places. I did everything I could to make memories with him and give him experiences he would remember. Sometimes though, I forgot what it felt like to simply be 16. I had responsibilities, worries, and a little person depending on me, and I had to put my own feelings aside a lot of the time.

In 2026, I had a realisation, I couldn’t continue living at home anymore. I needed somewhere safe and stable for both me and my son, somewhere we could finally call our own. I registered for housing because I wanted to create a home where my little boy could grow up feeling safe, secure, and proud to say “This is our home.” My mum struggles with her mental health, and home life became extremely difficult. I was constantly being kicked out, and I never knew when things were going to change. Eventually housing referred me to YMCA, and that is how I ended up here.

When I first arrived, I was incredibly nervous. I have always struggled with social anxiety, so moving into a home surrounded by people I didn’t know was frightening. I didn’t know what to expect, and I wasn’t sure if I would be able to cope with living away from everything I had known.

Six months later, I can honestly say that coming here has changed my life! I have met people who I believe I will stay friends with for life. The staff have become like family to me, and Jackie especially has become like a second mum. She has never judged me. She tells me when I need to be put in my place, but she is also the person I can turn to when I need someone to listen or simply need a shoulder to cry on. Having someone believe in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself, has meant more to me than I can explain.

Living independently was never going to be easy, especially at my age and with everything I had already experienced. But the people here have helped me become more independent, more confident, and more capable. They have shown me that I really can do things for myself, and most importantly that I will be okay.

Looking back at everything I’ve been through I realise just how far I have come. I have faced things at such a young age, but I am still here. I am a mum; I am learning to be independent and I am building a future for myself and my son.

Every night I thank my lucky stars for the experiences I’ve had, even the difficult ones, because they have shaped me into the person I am today. My journey hasn’t been easy, but it has taught me that I am stronger than I ever realised. I don’t know exactly what my future holds, but I know one thing, I am going to keep going. For myself and most importantly, for my little boy.