Jane came to Live and Work in January 2025 following a period of instability and a stay in hostel accommodation. She had experienced a significant family breakdown, which resulted in her becoming estranged from her immediate family. Originally from Poland, Jane had very limited contact with her relatives, who all remained there, and she often felt isolated without a strong family support network.

When Jane arrived at Live and Work, she demonstrated determination and resilience despite the challenges she had faced. With the stability and support provided through the project, she quickly began to flourish. She was able to focus on her college course and balanced her studies alongside a part-time job, showing a strong commitment to building a positive future for herself.

Throughout her time with us, Jane developed her confidence, independence, and life skills.

As a result of her progress, Jane was offered a brand-new home through one of our housing partners, Almond Housing Association. This was a significant milestone in her journey and provided her with the security and independence she had been working towards.

At the same time, Jane began to reconnect with her family in Poland. With increased confidence and emotional stability, she reached out to relatives she had previously lost contact with and gradually rebuilt these relationships. Over time, communication became more frequent and meaningful, allowing her to strengthen family connections that had been absent for many years.

One of the most significant developments was Jane’s reconnection with her father. Through regular contact and several visits to Poland, she was able to rebuild relationships across her wider family network. These visits gave Jane a renewed sense of belonging and helped her explore her cultural roots and identity.

As these relationships strengthened, Jane realised that Poland was where she felt most at home. Surrounded by family and supported by those closest to her, she made the decision to relocate permanently to the family farm in Poland.

Jane’s move represented much more than a change in location.

For the first time in her life, she was surrounded by a strong and supportive family network. She became actively involved in family life and was honoured to be named godparent to a new baby within the family, reflecting the trust, love, and connection she had rebuilt.

Jane’s journey demonstrates the impact that stability, appropriate housing support, and positive relationships can have on a young person’s life. From experiencing homelessness and family estrangement, she progressed to achieving independence, reconnecting with her family, and finding a place where she truly felt she belonged.

“Jane's journey demonstrates the impact that stability, appropriate housing support, and positive relationships can have on a young person's life. From experiencing homelessness and family estrangement, she progressed to achieving independence, reconnecting with her family, and finding a place where she truly felt she belonged.” Katie, Jane's Project Worker

Her story is a powerful example of resilience, personal growth, and the life-changing outcomes that can be achieved when young people are given the opportunity and support to thrive.