Joe arrived at the YMCA on 26.11.24 after being asked to leave home and struggling with mental health and substance misuse. Diagnosed with ADHD at age three, Joe experienced behavioural issues leading to incomplete secondary education, compounded by early cannabis use that escalated to cocaine, valium, and crack cocaine. His mental health declined, resulting in anxiety and depression diagnoses, alongside a history of criminal behaviour.

The death of his mother while incarcerated further worsened his mental health and increased substance misuse upon release. Homelessness for six months, including sleeping in a shed, on trampolines, and in a tent in Penshaw woods (where his tent was burned), led to significant mental health decline, self-harm, and increased substance misuse, alongside feelings of guilt and shame and significant weight loss due to limited access to food.

Initially withdrawn and distrustful upon arriving at the YMCA, Joe gradually engaged with services as he realised it was a temporary home with move-on support. He began connecting with Wear Recovery and probation services and started socialising within the service, which positively impacted his mental health and reduced his isolation and shame. Within weeks, his confidence grew, and he openly discussed support and goals with staff.

Currently, Joe struggles with feeling respected and managing his finances due to his sister being his appointee, resisting any support in this area. YMCA staff will continue to focus on empowering Joe to manage his finances and tenancy to ensure he is ready for independent living.