David’s Story: A Fresh Start at St Barts

February 24, 2026

After years of instability and unmet needs, David has found a place where he finally feels supported, understood, and hopeful about the future.

David moved into Target Housing’s St Barts service just four weeks ago. St Barts is a new, purpose-designed service developed to support individuals with enduring mental health conditions, learning disabilities and/or autism, alongside severe multiple disadvantage. Many residents, including David, have experienced repeated placement breakdowns, lengthy hospital stays, or support that did not fully meet their complex needs.

David came to St Barts through the Learning Disabilities Pathway. His main goal is simple but powerful: to make better life choices. After experiencing significant challenges in the past, David is now taking the first steps towards a more stable and positive future, with the reassurance that he does not have to do it alone.

In his own words, David has spoken about how Target Housing is helping him to feel supported and listened to. “The staff are great here and I like having more independence. They help me with my shopping, cooking and medication, and they’re always there if I need to talk.”

He values the calm environment at St Barts and the encouragement he receives to reflect on his choices and plan for the future. With the right support around him, David is beginning to feel more hopeful about what lies ahead.

St Barts represents an exciting step forward for Target Housing — our first 24/7 service operating under this intensive, trauma-informed model of support. David’s journey is still at an early stage, but his progress already highlights the importance of safe accommodation, consistent support, and believing in people’s ability to move forward, no matter how complex their past experiences