Ameera’s story

Ameera was first homeless, along with her mother and brothers, when she was 6 years old. ‘We stayed in the hotel for six months,’ says Ameera. ‘During that time, for the first couple of months, I didn’t know Barnardo’s and then my mum started telling me how you guys were trying to get us in a better situation.’

Children in families who are homeless and living in temporary accommodation are very badly affected by the uncertainty of their lives. Their homes can change with little or no notice, and basic essentials like a school place or doctor become major problems. A third of children living in temporary accommodation have no school to go to.

Our services include welfare rights advice and support to families. We also help with sorting out accommodation, and provide play provision for children who don’t have the toys or space to play outside. Simple things like drop-in sessions offer homeless families a place to meet others, get support and share experiences.

Ameera says: ‘I liked it a lot when I went to Barnardo’s because you had friends who were in the same situation so you didn’t feel afraid to talk about how you felt.’ After working with Ameera’s mother and housing services to find a good home for the family, they remain settled and secure. Ameera is doing brilliantly at school and has her sights set on a university place!