Brought up in care, Sophia had a turbulent childhood and was continuously moved between foster homes and children’s homes. Aged 17, she was placed in supported accommodation and struggled to fit in. She was constantly tormented by her housemates and when an argument broke out, Sophia was reported – and evicted. She felt let down and alone. She thought her life had turned a corner when she found a small flat for rent. She soon discovered it was full of damp and mould; during the harsh winter that followed, there was a hole in the roof and snow came through the ceiling. She had nowhere safe and warm to go.

Sophia was homeless.