Footprints supports young people returning to or living in our community who have contact with the Criminal Justice System. We offer practical, non-judgemental support to build long, meaningful and fulfilling lives away from crime, creating stronger communities for everyone.
*Names have been changed
Katy was a second-year student studying biological sciences at Bournemouth University when she received a police Caution. She had lost her eldest sister only five months before and had responded poorly. After a night of heavy drinking, she assaulted her boyfriend. She did not believe that she required any support and stated she had no issues. She did not trust us or want to engage.
However, we did not give up. We supported her with weekly 1-1 phone calls and text support that could fit around her busy schedule, and over time, we developed trust. Katy slowly became more receptive to our support. We learnt she was struggling with her accommodation and debt, and referred her to housing support. Katy was still resistant to engaging with other organisations. Still, we continued to encourage her to engage with the referral and Druglink, which was required for her Conditional Caution. We worked with her to address her grief and referred her to Cruse Bereavement Support.
Now, Katy has secured safe and affordable accommodation, has successfully completed Druglink and sought help for her bereavement. Katy is still studying and has recently passed her 2nd-year exams.
