Louis
Young people are often being asked to perform adulthood without having been taught its invisible rules
Louis, St Giles’ Caseworker
Through his work, he supports young people during some of the most difficult periods of their lives. Many have experienced instability, fractured relationships with adults and significant barriers to engaging with support.
From Louis’ experience, many young people arrive at St Giles feeling stuck, unheard and uncertain that anyone will genuinely help them.
Many have already experienced being let down by trusted adults and, as a result, support itself can sometimes feel unfamiliar or difficult to trust.
Many young people come to St Giles feeling stuck, abandoned and unheard.
Louis describes support from St Giles as practical, consistent and relationship-based.
Support can include advocacy with housing providers, support with benefits and finances, attending appointments, employment support and helping young people access education and opportunities.
But often, Louis says, what matters most is not solving everything immediately.
What young people often need most is not just a solution, but someone to sit alongside them, translate complex systems, advocate on their behalf and demonstrate through action that this support will not disappear.
Support often extends beyond office spaces into homes and communities through home visits, attending meetings together or simply checking in.
Louis explains that many young people place more value on actions than words.
Louis says consistency is one of the most important parts of the work.
Young people may disengage or stop responding during difficult periods. Consistent support helps reassure them they will not be judged or abandoned.
Consistent support provides a corrective experience.
Over time, Louis sees young people begin recognising their own value and potential.
The right support at the right time can help young people move from a place of survival into one of reflection and growth.”
THIS TIME NEXT SUMMER
Reflecting on this campaign, Louis says he hopes young people feel calmer, safer and more hopeful about their futures.
For some, this may mean stable housing or accessing education and employment opportunities.
For others, it may simply mean believing they deserve a future worth investing in.
Supporters help make this possible by funding the consistent support that gives young people time to build trust and move forward at their own pace.
Can you help make this time next summer look very different for young people who are still trying to believe their future can look different from today?
With your support, more young people can move beyond survival and begin shaping futures they choose for themselves.
Be there this summer, so someone can look forward to the next one.