Pete's story

“I grew up with my two sisters, my mum and dad and my brother. I was very lucky to receive an amazing education and always wanted to be a footballer. But everything changed when my family’s home got repossessed. I was 18 and not classed as a dependant, so I was forced into homelessness. 

“It was a real shock, but as a teenager I didn’t really think of myself as homeless. I just needed a sofa to sleep on. I worked in retail and as a chef for many years. In 2012 I went to university. When I graduated, I built a career in furniture retail and became a Showroom Manager.  

“I saved a deposit and bought my first house which was amazing. I got married and in 2018, we had our son. Things were looking good, until lockdown when our relationship broke down and I lost my job.  

“I was struggling financially and had so many plates in the air. My mental health really suffered, and I was hospitalised. The only thing that kept me going was the thought of my son. But then when I was released, I came home to an eviction notice. I was homeless again. 

“That’s when a friend suggested Crisis. They were brilliant. They gave me housing advice and helped me access mental health support. I’ve got a flat now and I’m focusing on being the best dad I can be. That’s why Crisis is so important. They’re working on the root causes of homelessness so that the next generation don’t have to go through what I did.  

“Crisis doesn’t overwhelm you. Their support enables you to make the changes you need for yourself.  

“Slowly I’m working on myself and my life. I love football, and now play for FC Equalise which is all about increasing participation.”