Charlotte’s* Story

So many horrible things happened to me when I was a little kid. I was not safe with my family, so I was moved to multiple foster homes. I would mix water and toothpaste in a glass sometimes because I was so hungry when some of them refused to give me food. I was sent to live with a foster carer who had significant mental and physical health issues which resulted in me having to look after her.

One foster carer made me sleep outside in winter in a dog kennel and it was only when I climbed inside through the cat door, I was able to sleep inside. When I told child protection, they said that I was lying. I remember staying with my mum’s foster carer (yes – she had been in the system too!) and I was made to bathe in filthy water which was only replaced every 3 days.

I was continually passed through different foster care homes and never felt loved. I’m mature for my age because I had to grow up quickly. When I was 16, I was put into accommodation that is called “lead tenant” which is rental property where I was supposed to be living with an adult, but he was never there. I had the house broken into and everything stolen, it was so scary.

Now I am living at the Cocoon in Melbourne, and I am completing my year 12 equivalent. I have also recently finished a mechanic course and I have been offered a job. I’m currently learning how to drive. I feel safe and supported and like I have a real home.

The cocoon has offered me a safe and cozy space to be able to let my walls down and enjoy doing the little things in life. I have grown so much as a person in the past few months and having a little support group by my side.

*Name changed to protect identity