Ahmed: Staying Engaged

Ahmed* came to Hope Street after his year level school coordinator referred him to the local Homelessness Access Point. He had been living in and out of the family home for around six months, in ongoing conflict with his father, though he maintained a good relationship with his mother. After a final incident, his father took out an intervention order against him. Ahmed confided in his teacher that he had nowhere to go.

He was referred to Hope Street’s emergency bed for overnight accommodation, brought in by his school coordinator, and returned to the access point the following day. The access point could only offer temporary hotel accommodation, but two days later a vacancy opened in the BOOST program’s week Stay Bed, and Ahmed was accepted.

Ahmed had previously been diagnosed with ADHD and at times struggled with personal boundaries, communication, and interactions with others. He could be demanding with staff, and his poor communication and learnt behaviours created friction with other residents. However, youth residential staff and BOOST specialist case managers noted that he responded well to direction, and that he was beginning to develop insight into how his behaviour affected those around him. Throughout his stay, Ahmed continued attending school. 

The BOOST team supported his income to be transferred to the independent rate of Youth Allowance and which put him in a better position which enabled housing options discussions to commence. At the end of his week stay, the team secured him a two-week placement in a private rooming house. With rent assistance and short-term Housing Establishment Funding support, Ahmed was able to manage financially while BOOST arranged a $2,000 Private Rental Brokerage package.Ahmed remains in the rooming house and is still attending school. Brokerage funds are being used to subsidise his rent while he explores shared accommodation options. He stays in contact with his mother, meeting her away from the family home, and is exploring part-time employment with his school coordinator. 

Hope Street’s intervention limited further disruption at a critical point, keeping Ahmed engaged in school and giving him experience in a supportive residential environment. He now has a clear strategy, improved independent living skills, and the support needed to transition to stable housing on his own terms.

*Name changed to protect privacy.