For Naihum, independence is about more than having a place to live. It is about having the security, confidence and skills to decide what comes next.
Now 27, Naihum works full-time as a primary school PE teacher – a career that combines two things he has always been passionate about: sport and helping others. But just a few years ago, finding a home he could afford while building his career seemed much harder.
Living with his parents, Naihum was ready to move into his own home. But the cost of renting privately was beyond what he could comfortably afford, and he wasn’t sure where to turn.
Then a friend of his mum told him about Centrepoint’s Independent Living Programme.
The programme offered exactly what Naihum needed: an affordable home where he could live independently, save money and develop the skills needed to eventually manage a tenancy of his own.
Within a month of applying, he was offered a property close to his workplace.
“I’ve always been grateful for the opportunity to be here and to pay a decent price because I know how expensive it can be to rent,” he says.
For Naihum, the difference has been about much more than affordable rent. Having a housing officer, he could turn to for advice has given him the confidence to tackle problems rather than allowing them to become overwhelming. From resolving issues with his electricity bill and rent to helping him think about his future, that support was there when he needed it.
He has also been able to build his financial skills. With his rent capped at around a third of his salary, Naihum has been able to save while learning how to budget for food, transport and bills.
“Fortunately, here at Centrepoint, it’s at a rate I know I can afford and still be independent.”
The programme has also helped Naihum look beyond the immediate future. His housing officer connected him with a mentor, giving him another source of encouragement and guidance as he works towards his longer-term ambitions.
After four years at Centrepoint, Naihum has now saved enough for a deposit and is beginning to plan for his next move. His ambition is eventually to own his own home.
For him, the journey is about taking responsibility for his own future – but also recognising the importance of having the right support along the way.
“It starts with you and if you want to do something, you’ve got to put the plan together.”
Naihum’s story demonstrates the impact of Centrepoint’s Independent Living Programme: giving young people more than a roof over their heads and creating the stability and opportunity to develop the skills, confidence and financial security they need to move forward.
It is this impact that has seen the programme shortlisted for the London Homelessness Awards 2026, which celebrates the people and organisations making a real difference to the lives of Londoners experiencing homelessness.
For Naihum, the next step is his own. But thanks to the foundations he built with Centrepoint, he is ready to take it.