Jane & Rentstart

Jane is 24. She was made homeless after experiencing family breakdown, and found herself alternating between sleeping rough, sofa surfing, and staying in all-night bars to keep out of the cold. When homelessness charity Rentstart met Jane she was struggling with mental health issues, and desperate for accommodation.

Her support worker says: “We referred Jane to the local night shelter to keep her out of the cold, and helped her with mental health support as well as advice on benefits.”

Our funding supports Rentstart to deliver life-skills and employability sessions to 60 young people a year – ultimately helping them to move into sustainable housing.

“At first there wasn’t any housing available to suit Jane’s needs, but we encouraged her to attend the daytime hub. She also took part in lifeskills sessions with the project worker that Berkeley Foundation funds. When a flat became available we provided tenancy training and support to give Jane the best chance of success. She continues to work with Rentstart and through our support and structure is in a good place for the future.”