Steven and Sowda are both residents at Kharis Court, Bethany’s residential unit for young people.
They shared their stories of welcome and care that they have experienced through staying at Kharis Court and how the sensitive and responsive staff support has given them a home, helped them to build solid foundations, and fostered strong relationships that prepare them for a positive future…
“Kharis Court’s my home. It’s like my family. I’m excited to live in this house.”
Sowda’s story
My name is Sowda. I am 18 years old and originally from Somalia. I moved around a lot before coming to Scotland in 2024, where I moved into the supported accommodation at Kharis Court. The first time I arrived at the house the staff made me feel very welcome. They have helped me with everything. They made it feel like family, they are like my mum and dad…
They are so considerate when they speak to me, even though I sometimes struggle with understanding the language. They make me feel so happy and supported.
I am attending classes in English and Art, and I go to a Women’s Group where they do all kinds of activities, and the people are all from different countries, I’m really enjoying it.
Kharis Court’s my home. It’s like my family. I’m excited to live in this house.
Thank you all for helping me.
Steven’s story
I was in foster care at the age of 7 and got moved from carer to carer, I was separated from my sibling. In 2019 I was moved to a children’s unit and started self-harming and making suicide attempts as a way to cope…
In November 2023, after staying in a few different hostels, there was a referral to Bethany, and I got a place in Kharis Court. Staff were there 24/7 for support and I have not self-harmed or attempted since… I was prescribed medication for low moods but am now managing without them.
I have been studying cookery at West Lothian College. I love learning to cook and am starting to feel more confident in that… I’ve even helped the staff cook meals here, we have a laugh together.
“It feels good that people listen to you. “
I am also moving on to one of the supported flats to prepare me for moving on to my own tenancy in the community. I’m excited and I know the staff will always be here for me. It feels good that people listen to you.
Home is where the heart is, and where family and friends get together.