Kyron’s Story

Kyron's father burned down their house, and both his parents were hard drug users. Kyron experienced homelessness and left school without any qualifications. Thanks to Youthbuild Essex, he has rebuilt his life and is now an aspiring young bricklayer.

The Difficult Days

At just six years old, Kyron's father set fire to their family home, leading to his imprisonment and the family's move to a hostel. When his father was released, he started dealing drugs and both of Kyron’s parents were heroin and cocaine users.

Kyron fell into drug use, experienced paranoia, and got into frequent fights at school. He changed schools six times and left at 16 with no qualifications. Homeless for a period, he slept in a tunnel and on park benches.

The Way Out Was Tough

Kyron initially struggled to gain qualifications at his local college due to his drug use and association with dealers. However, Essex Youthbuild offered him a chance at work experience. Despite a rocky start, Kyron learned the importance of attendance and timekeeping, improving his stamina and self-discipline. He eventually achieved 100% attendance and punctuality.

Jane Cosh, Youthbuild Essex’s CEO at the time, said, “Kyron became a very mature and responsible young man. His attitude to work experience became exemplary. He thoroughly enjoyed it and it made him totally committed to finding a career in construction.”

Grasping the Future with Both Hands

Determined to take control of his future, Kyron found direction through his work experience with Youthbuild Essex. “I enjoy building, I now enjoy achieving qualifications and I’ve learnt to enjoy learning,” Kyron said. “Getting into a routine and coming to the same place regularly helps me focus. Getting my first qualifications under my belt was brilliant. I am determined to be a bricklayer and make a life for myself.”