Case Studies

Foyer Oxford - Youth Housing Impact

Daniel* was struggling to cope with high school, conflict with his emotionally abusive family had escalated, and he had been kicked out of home.

With no stable housing, his mental health had deteriorated, and Daniel found himself living between crisis accommodation and mental health institutions. When he turned 16 Daniel made a serious attempt on his life and spent 3 months in hospital. Despite everything, he was focused on completing his high school education and finding his own place. This was when he heard about Foyer Oxford. With his Foyer case manager, Daniel worked on developing his independent living skills, so he felt equipped to maintain his schooling, look after his mental health, manage finances, and the day-to-day looking after his place. He also attended workshops on nutrition, physical health and exercise, budgeting and leadership skills. At Foyer he completed year 12, was accepted into Curtin University, undertook work experience with the Foundation Housing marketing team, had his design work submitted to a journal and started a casual job. 

On exit from Foyer Daniel gained stable housing through a shared accommodation opportunity.

 “Foyer Oxford is an amazing opportunity. It’s given me a rental history from the age of 16, 24/7 staff support, lifelong friendship, and the chance to make something of myself. They supported me through graduating high school, entering university and gaining part-time work, when for a while it looked like I was going nowhere in life.’”

Housing First - Keny Miya

Connie* had been experiencing homelessness for 5 years  when she met Ben*, who had been sleeping rough for a year. They both had methamphetamine addictions for over 15 years and wanted to work towards a clean life.

Ben and Connie had been living in a tent together as a couple when Connie fell pregnant. This was the catalyst for their decision to detox in their camp and begin to build a life for themselves. Anglicare WA’s Housing First team worked with the couple over 18 months, supporting them through all  stages of their recovery: from complex health needs, ongoing emergency relief, obtaining ID and documents, accessing counselling and pre-natal health services, to getting housed under the Djuripiny Mia Program. 

The Housing First Support Service has stayed engaged to continue to help Connie and Ben reach their goals and sustain their tenancy. Our workers are pleased to report Ben is holding down full-time work, and both are more than 6-months clean and sober.