One Year On: Reflecting on John’s Journey

This Time Last Year

This time last year, John first walked through our doors. He had recently left prison and was dealing with the realities that so many people face after release, addiction, instability, and uncertainty about what the future might hold. Like many others, he had engaged with different services before, but still felt unseen and unsure of where to turn next.

Over the months that followed, John began working with Fresh Start, having open conversations about his situation and what support would genuinely help. Our team, many of whom have lived experience of the criminal justice system themselves, understood those challenges first-hand.

Together, we focused on practical support, trust, and taking one step at a time. Through this process, John was introduced to the Teen Challenge programme, with Fresh Start supporting his application and transition.

Today, one year on, John is approaching twelve months free from drugs and continuing his journey through Teen Challenge. Looking back, his story reminds us why relationship-led support and shared understanding matter. As we step into a new year, it is a powerful example of how change can happen when people are met with empathy, honesty, and belief at the right moment.