Jason’s* story 

My time being homeless was something I wouldn’t wish on anyone. I still had my job, and the stress of having nowhere to go after work, and nowhere to feel safe brought on a mental breakdown. I couldn’t sleep, couldn’t focus. Your head just feels broken, wondering why these things were happening, and how I could get myself out of it. Then winter came, which was so cold outside. I will never forget that.

When I arrived at Your Place, I was still in this mindset of being confused and low. When I realised that my time being homeless was coming to an end, I slowly allowed myself to feel comfortable again. This was a huge turning point for me, and I found that Your Place was a little community. I was struggling with a lot, but people kept telling me that I can speak my mind, that my voice is heard, and that they can help with my problems. That felt special, and something I hadn’t experienced before.

I’ve enjoyed helping out with gardening and planting flowers and growing tomatoes and lettuce at Your Place; it has helped me get my mind back on track while I was planning my next move, and also helped me meet other residents.

I was so grateful to have a roof over my head and finally sleep to relax myself. I don’t socialise much, but the support workers do their jobs really well. My keyworker James helped me out with a lot of different things, anything that needed to be done. I have a lot of respect for him. My health hasn’t been too good, and I got support with accessing health services which has really helped.

Now I have my own place and I am so happy. I’ve had support from Funmi, who has helped me set up my bills and has checked in on me. She helped when I moved out to make sure my rent was set up; she is so helpful and keeps me motivated so stay active and keep working towards my goals. This is what I mean about Your Place feeling like a little community. People really care, and so many people I’ve met have helped me get to where I am now.