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Homeless at 16, Now Inspires Others
11 Jan
Summary
- Aimee Holly found a lifeline after experiencing homelessness at 16.
- The charity helped her learn budgeting, cooking, and gain independence.
- Roundabout's 50th anniversary highlights its enduring impact on youth.

Aimee Holly, now 20, credits a Sheffield charity with transforming her life after she faced homelessness at 16. Increased family pressures during the Covid pandemic led her to a hostel run by Roundabout, a pivotal moment that equipped her with budgeting and cooking skills. This support allowed Holly to secure her own accommodation and pursue a degree in mental health nursing, with aspirations to give back to the organization.
Founded in 1977, Roundabout began by accommodating five homeless individuals aged 16-20. Today, with an annual budget of approximately £10 million, it supports 380 young people up to age 25 daily across Sheffield and Rotherham. The charity has evolved its focus to homelessness prevention, engaging with schools to identify and support at-risk youth before they leave home.
Roundabout's preventative work, including crucial counselling services, has helped young people like Holly navigate emotional challenges and receive diagnoses, such as neuro-divergence. This support aims to foster potential and provide a pathway away from homelessness, a mission recognized by funding from initiatives like the Royal Foundation's Homewards project.




