Making connections to build a better future
Steve has been with Action Homeless for almost a year, after reaching out to our services for support following a period of several years with no stable place to call home. Steve also experienced street homelessness shortly before finally reaching out for support. Several years ago, Steve was caring for his mother and looking after his young family with his partner. Sadly, his mother passed away at the same time as his relationship broke down, and he was left with no place to stay. This period of time was incredibly stressful and painful for him, and caused him to isolate himself.
Once Steve sought out support from Action Homeless, he was provided with safe and stable accommodation, and assigned a key worker who would provide dedicated and personalised support. Through the support provided, Steve made steps in learning to trust people again, after going through grief and losing everyone that mattered to him at the same time.
He was determined to connect with other people, instead of being on his own, and not to be a hermit. With an interest in gardening, Steve got involved in taking care of the garden in the property he was living in. He also made the most of the events and activities that Action Homeless provide for our clients across our services.
One such activity is our regular EmpowerMENt Men’s Mental Health sessions which focus on men’s mental health; providing people with opportunities to increase their social contact in a safe space where they know they won’t be judged and in an environment which they trust. Steve has often attended these sessions, and seen the benefits of peer support and connection that they provide. He has also been involved in our Action Homeless football team for clients, and has regularly attended practices and has recently taken part in a season of games in aid of other local support organisation, culminating in a tournament event.
Steve also attended our annual Client Conference not long after arriving in our services, and got to know more about the work that we do. He appreciated the chance to give some input on his lived experience of homelessness.
Currently, Steve is looking forward to moving into more permanent accommodation, and spending more quality time with his kids. He has also recently started volunteering work, which all going well will turn into paid employment after a trial period. He is keeping active by going to the gym, as well as keeping up with regular football practices.
We rely on support from the wider community to help people rebuild their lives and break the cycle of homelessness. If you’d like to help us to continue to provide personalised support for individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness, you can find more information on how to make a donation here.