David's story
“I have severe arthritis so I can’t work anymore. After my relationship broke down, I was staying with my daughter. The pressure of living in an overcrowded home grew and her boyfriend kicked me out. I was completely lost.”
“I had no money for food. The council got me a place in a hostel, and then I got in touch with Crisis and met Kaitlyn, my lead worker. The first day I met her, she seemed to bring out this ability in me.
“She gave me the confidence to start writing poetry and lyrics again, and she helped me get higher on the list for housing. Around Christmas, I went to a wellbeing day at the Skylight Centre in Newcastle. I had a haircut, a massage – a mince pie! It’s what Christmas should be about really, helping other people.
“I also had an eye test. Having new glasses was so important for reading letters and filling in forms.
“Now I have a lovely little flat to call home. I’ve got the freedom to do my own thing, listen to my records. I can shut the door and that’s it.”
*David's story reflects a real member's experience, but his name and photo were changed to protect his identity.
Photo credits: Lee Brown.
You can support someone like David to start their journey out of homelessness
You can support someone like David to start their journey out of homelessness