November is Care Leavers' Month and we are highlighting the work that the Young Persons team does to support those who are leaving care and looking to move into their own home so they can thrive and live independently.

Read Jerry's inspirational journey from care leaver to living an independent life in his own home. 

My name's Jerry, also known as Graf Boy. I'm 22 and living in Wolverhampton. Right now, I'm working towards building my own garden maintenance business, supporting care leavers, local organisations and the wider community.

I moved into my flat at the end of February this year after a few setbacks along the way. Since then, it's been a real journey. It wasn't easy, but it gave me a lot of time to reflect.

I'm proud that I kept going. Having my own place has helped me focus on my future, become more independent and start building something for myself. I've still got goals to achieve, but I'm moving in the right direction.

What did having a place of your own mean to you when you first became a tenant?

Having a place of my own meant I finally had somewhere permanent to call home. At first, I had to get used to the area, living on my own and everything that comes with it.

But it's been an eye-opener. Having my own place has shown me what I'm capable of and what I can achieve when I put my mind to it. Moving into your own home is scary, but it's rewarding at the same time.

I've gone from being Young Citizen of the Year to becoming head groundsman of the Care Leavers' Zen Zone, and now I have customers getting in touch about my gardening work. Having my own place has played a big part in that journey and helped me become the person I am today.

What has been the biggest adjustment to living independently?

The biggest learning curve has definitely been managing money and making sure my rent gets paid on time.

People don't always realise how much responsibility comes with having your own place. You've got bills to think about, rent to pay and a home to look after. It can be stressful at times, but it's taught me a lot about being organised and taking responsibility for myself.

I'm still learning every day, but that's all part of becoming independent.

How have you found the support from Wolverhampton Homes? 

The support the drop-in hub has been spot on. Knowing there are people there when you need advice or support makes a big difference, especially when you're getting used to living independently.

Like anyone moving into a first home, there have been challenges along the way, but having people who listen and help you work through things has been important. When you've got the right support around you, it gives you confidence to keep moving forward and focus on your goals.

What do you think people misunderstand about young people leaving care and moving into independent accommodation?

One of the biggest misunderstandings is that people don't always see what's going on behind the scenes.

A lot of care leavers are carrying responsibilities that many young people don't have to think about yet. You're learning how to manage a home, pay bills, work towards your future and deal with life's ups and downs all at the same time.

From the outside people might think everything is fine. What they don't always see is how much determination it takes to keep going and keep building a life for yourself.

Care leavers are often stronger and more resilient than people realise.

If you could give one piece of advice to another young person who is preparing to move into their first home, what would you tell them?

Have a plan and start thinking ahead.

Moving into your first home is a big step, and the more prepared you are, the easier it will be. Think about your finances, what you want to do in the future and how you're going to get there.

My biggest advice is to find something you're passionate about and put your energy into it. Whether it's mechanics, beauty, gardening, art, poetry or something completely different, having something to work towards gives you purpose.

Believe in yourself and don't be afraid to give things a go. You'll surprise yourself with what you're capable of achieving if you stick with it.