When Neil first came into contact with Purfleet Trust, it was through his peers who used the service. At the time, he was navigating homelessness and the challenges that come with it.
After losing his father and experiencing a series of difficult events, Neil found himself in a very unstable situation, even living in a shed at one point. He later spent time in a local hostel but was asked to leave following a misunderstanding. Despite this setback, he was given another opportunity and offered a place in a Purfleet Trust Training House.
For Neil, moving into the Training House became a turning point.
“It’s a stepping stone to a normal life – running a house, managing bills, responsibilities.”
With the support available, Neil began to rebuild his life, learning the skills needed to live independently and take on new responsibilities. A key part of this journey was the support he received from his support worker, Jelena.
“She was one of the few people who believed in me and gave me a chance.”
With that belief and guidance, Neil was able to make the most of the opportunity in front of him. Neil describes the changes he has made as some of the most important in his life.
“I did the hard work, but Purfleet gave me the tools and showed me how to run with it.”
After around three years of homelessness, which he describes as leaving him feeling “disgraced” and with “no sense of worth,” Neil began to rebuild his confidence and sense of purpose.
Today, Neil is living in his own home — something he once thought might never happen – an has created a stable home for himself and his family.
“I’m sitting in my kitchen, looking around, and thinking to myself: ‘I’ve done it!'”
His journey shows how, with the right support and a second chance, it is possible to move from homelessness and loss to stability, independence and a place to truly call home.
