Freya's story

Freya was forced into homelessness after being given a Section 21 No Fault Eviction. But since coming to Crisis, her lead worker, Melissa, has helped her find a home, as well as funding for her future with a Changing Lives Grant. She tells us more.

“When I was given a no fault eviction, I was made homeless and had to put all my belongings into storage.

“Among the things I put in there were my make up brushes and tools that I’d used while I was working as a make up artist. I used to work with big brands like Chanel and on the make up counters at Selfridges and I’d also worked freelance on some big photoshoots.

“But all my make up brushes and equipment got stolen while they were in storage, which meant I couldn’t return to work.

“I’d lost so much, and at Christmas two years ago, I came to stay at the Crisis at Christmas hotels. Sidney helped me find a home and then Melissa supported me with getting me back into education and work.

“I told her that I could in theory work freelance as a make up artist, but it would be really difficult after all my equipment was stolen. Melissa told me about the Changing Lives Grant, funded by Lloyds Banking Group, that could help cover the costs of getting me back into work.

“I also told Melissa that one day, I would love to be a fashion designer and have my own brand. I always wanted to go to college and do a fashion design course, and Melissa said that a grant could help with this too.

“So I applied and was successful in getting over £10,000 in funding to pay for the equipment I needed for my college course – two specialist sewing machines, and iPad, Camera and Laptop. And there was also enough to cover the costs of replacing all my make up equipment – including the brushes and make up.

“It was really exciting to go with Melissa to purchase it all at MAC on Carnaby Street recently. We spent two and a half hours in store shopping and came away with over 60 products that will help me get back up and running. I even got a huge 35% pro discount which meant I still have a little bit of my grant money left over.

“I’m so grateful to Melissa and everyone at Crisis because without them, none of this would have been possible. And without the funding from Lloyds, I could never have accessed any of these resources. I will be forever thankful for their support.

“Even though I’ve lost so much, their kindness has given me hope, tools and a fresh start.”