19th August 2022
Sanctuary Supported Living
Young people living in a Hartlepool supported housing service enjoyed a day out at the football, thanks to a helping hand from a big-hearted, local lady.
After watching BBC One’s recent documentary, The Real Mo Farah, and learning some truths about his trafficking ordeal as a child, good Samaritan Deborah Stephenson reached out to Sanctuary Supported Living’s Victoria Road.
The supported living service, which provides support for young people who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness, welcomed four unaccompanied asylum-seeking teenagers this year. Originally from the Middle East, they arrived struggling with language differences, acculturation, plus the trauma of their lived experiences.
Describing the documentary as “heart-breaking”, Deborah asked to donate £150 to Victoria Road, much to the delight of the young football fan residents who asked if they could attend an EFL Championship game. The kindness of strangers was only matched throughout the day as the ticket office offered Project Worker, Pete, and Concierge, Dave, free tickets for chaperoning the youngsters to Sheffield United vs Middlesbrough - and Stagecoach provided complimentary transport.
"As well as providing safe, stable accommodation for vulnerable, young people, we work hard to encourage social inclusion, integration, and independence."
Dave Wilson, Concierge, said: “Thanks to these generous donations, we had a fantastic day at the Riverside Stadium. The boys have been riding the football high since the Lionesses’ win earlier this month, and they were thrilled to see some live football in action. As well as providing safe, stable accommodation for vulnerable, young people, we work hard to encourage social inclusion, integration, and independence to support their potential and ensure they’re living their best lives. Days out like these are so important to allow us to do this – we truly are grateful.”
To find out more about the accommodation and support provided by Sanctuary Supported Living see our news stories or find a service near you.
