Samsom, 18, came to the UK in 2023 as an unaccompanied asylum-seeking child after fleeing Eritrea. His journey took him through Ethiopia, Libya, Italy and France, where he spent weeks rough sleeping before eventually crossing the Channel by boat.

Explaining why he made the journey, he said he wanted to learn English and believed the UK would offer better opportunities for young people. He explained, “I was homeless when I travelled from Libya to Italy. I had nothing.”

When he arrived in Britain, aged just 16, he was placed with a foster family before moving into supported accommodation, thanks to the youth homelessness charity, Centrepoint.

As a result, he developed greater independence and confidence in his daily life, including cooking, shopping, and attending important medical appointments on his own. He was also able to undergo surgery that improved sight in his right eye. “Centrepoint helped me manage my health and supported me in undergoing an operation to restore my vision,” he said.

Now studying English and maths, Samsom has made remarkable progress, including being awarded Student of the Year by his college. He later also received an Educational Excellence Award at Centrepoint’s annual ceremony, recognising outstanding achievement among young people.

Reflecting on his accomplishments, her said, “I will do more next year than I did this year. I feel happy, I feel proud”.

Growing Food Poverty Among Homeless Young People, Centrepoint Reports

Centrepoint, the youth homelessness charity, has warned of rising food poverty among vulnerable young people after issuing 314 emergency food vouchers in the first three months of 2026 alone compared with 1,095 across the whole of last year.

The scheme provides rapid support, often within an hour, helping young people access essentials during periods of crisis. Nearly a quarter of those seeking help are homeless, including rough sleepers and young people forced to sofa surf.

The charity said many........

© Eastern Daily Press