A man who overcame homelessness to qualify as an electrician has thanked the people who helped him.

Andrew Onasanya, a graduate of the United Colleges Group (UCG), was recently presented with the Independent Living Award at Centrepoint's annual awards ceremony by the Prince of Wales.

The event, held at the British Museum, celebrates the achievements of young people striving to end youth homelessness in the UK.

While training as an electrical apprentice at the College of North West London, Andrew found himself in a precarious situation when his housing benefit was cut.

He sought help from Centrepoint's Independent Living programme, which provided him with a safe living environment, free from the fear of homelessness.

This support allowed him to focus on his studies and work towards a career.

Last year, he completed his Level 3 electrotechnical apprenticeship standard at the College of North West London and is now a qualified electrician.

In addition to his work, Andrew is an advocate for vulnerable young people and campaigns to end youth homelessness.

Andrew said: "I would like to thank the apprenticeships team at United Colleges Group...for their patience and understanding when I was going through a challenging time while completing my apprenticeship.

"I hope it (the award) shows that things really can get better if you continue to work at them, and I see this as the first chapter in my story.

"The Centrepoint programme was a stepping stone to the next stage of independence."

Stephen Davis, chief executive and group principal of United Colleges Group, said: "Everyone at United Colleges Group was delighted to see Andrew’s aspirational and altruistic attitude to life be recognised with this prestigious award.

"On behalf of myself and everyone at UCG, I would like to congratulate him, and also thank him for his kind words on the support he received while studying at the College of North West London."