After illness, unemployment and a difficult relationship with his family left him homeless, Adam found himself staying with friends and in a forest near to where he grew up, spending nights outside even during the winter months. Being out of work and with nowhere to live, Adam’s confidence and self-esteem were low and he often felt like giving up.
Adam’s life began to improve when he found support at Bradford Foyer, a centre for young, homeless people. When participating in volunteering, Adam showed his maturity and willingness to grab any opportunity that came his way. Staff at the centre recognised Adam’s determination, leading them to recommend him for the ‘Ready for Work’ programme.
In November 2009, Adam successfully completed two days training before undertaking a two-week work placement at UKAR – formerly Bradford & Bingley. Adam’s excellent attitude and aptitude shined during his placement as Bev Hall, Adam’s buddy who supported him during the two weeks, explains:
“Adam joined the Correspondence Team as someone who was unsure of his abilities but very determined to prove himself. It soon became clear that Adam was very quick to learn new things and would always ask for more work. He pushed and pushed himself.”
At the end of his placement, BAOH arranged for Neil Vanham of Bradford & Bingley to become Adam’s job coach and with Neil’s support and guidance, Adam secured a full-time permanent post with the bank. It has been over 12 months since Adam started his new job. In that time he has continued to make the most of every opportunity he has been offered, as Neil highlights:
“Adam is a great example of how the BAOH programme can give those a bit down on their luck the assistance they need to get back on their feet and into work. Adam was dedicated from the start, and recognised the opportunity the programme was giving him ... He is now an integral part of the team he works in and is very much on his way to making a good career for himself.”
In July 2010, Adam was able to leave his hostel and move into a cottage with his fiancée. Adam “never dared to hope” that he would be in this position in such a short space of time. But, through his own determination and the support of Business Action on Homelessness, Adam is now able to be optimistic about his future:
“I am 22 with a good job ... There was a lot of self-motivation, but I wouldn’t have got where I am without the people who have helped me.”
