Bia’s Journey: From Fear to Future with Young Gloucestershire

“I moved to Gloucestershire in January in supported housing for young people. Before that, I had been bouncing around the country, trying to stay safe in places, this was because I survived domestic abuse and honour abuse from my family, which left me feeling extremely paranoid. I was constantly looking over my shoulder and felt guilty, knowing that if my family couldn’t find me, they might go after the people I knew.

“I had been at university before but had to leave because I didn’t feel safe going out or even staying inside. Every move meant starting over—new friendships, new courses, and leaving people behind, I often felt like I didn’t belong anywhere. Despite this I’ve always tried to focus on the positive, I have met many amazing people and places.

“When I was in supported living, this is where I first came into contact with YG, where is was introduced to the Team program. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I decided to give it a try and was looking forward to it since I had nothing to lose. Joining Team and coming every day gave me a routine and a stable group of people to interact with every day. Over the three months, I spent with the team, it was very grounding being with the same people, it brought me out of my shell. We have a very active group chat which was comforting, especially since I didn’t know anyone.

“By the end of my time with Team, my team leader encouraged me to consider going back to university. Before YG, I had thought about returning to uni but didn’t know how to make it happen, I felt it was out of my grasp. But now, I’m heading back to university, I just needed that nudge in the right direction.

“Team has turned things around completely for me, I don’t have the words to describe what a big deal it has been. A few months ago, I didn’t think this was possible. If I hadn’t joined Team, I don’t think I would be going to uni now. Before I was trying to escape people and places, but now I have something to work towards. I’m no longer running from my past but looking forward to my future. My outlook on life has changed, and my expectations for what’s ahead are much brighter.”