Adrian’s Story
Before my Mum died, I didn’t drink, I didn’t smoke. I cycled all around the country, even to other countries. I hiked a lot, boxed a lot. I was very spiritual, but not self-righteous either. I was a normal bloke with flaws, certainly not living a...
Guy’s Story
I work full time…but I’ve spent 4 years living in a disused shed. When I was in my twenties, both my parents died. Afterwards, my brother and I lived together, but when he moved out to live with his girlfriend I couldn’t afford the flat’s rent on my own. I ended...
Sam’s Story
After hitting rock bottom, I was admitted to a mental health care centre. On discharge, I had no home to go to and I was terrified. Fortunately, I was put in touch with Turning Tides. They supported me on my journey to recovery. I now have a home, a full-time job and the tools I need to manage my mental health.
Sophia’s Story
I found myself homeless after escaping an abusive relationship. My mental health was in a terrible state, and I was struggling to deal with all the feelings I had about what had happened to me. Everything changed when I became involved with Turning Tides – I began to feel safe and hopeful for the future.
Joe’s Story
I don’t remember how long I was homeless; it took me many years to ask for help. But once I went to St Clare’s Hub I soon realised how supportive the staff are there. Now I have a roof over my head and I don’t have to risk my health anymore. I want to share my story so that people can understand and treat us like human beings.
Steve’s Story
I was living in the woods when one day Bex and John (Turning Tides Outreach Workers) found me and offered help. They told me about the Recovery service and set me up with a keyworker who made a plan for me. I have started to trust again and see how people can care for one another. I feel like a human being again.
Cheryl’s Story
In August 2019, I found myself abruptly and unfairly evicted. In the blink of an eye my life had completely unravelled – I was homeless. For so many years, as I moved from one place to another, I just felt unsafe and on edge. Now, after coming to Turning Tides, I feel hopeful about the future.
Zoe’s Story
I was in a relationship that was abusive – physically and mentally. After having a fit in town, I thought hard about how I could get away. I remembered people speaking about Turning Tides, so I took a few belongings and they took me in. I stayed with Turning Tides for 3 years – they helped me rebuild my life.
Simon’s Story
The charity really has been such a godsend. If I could rate them on an app, I would press on the five stars all day long. Without their support and those who help fund the charity, I honestly do not know where I would be right now. It frightens me to think about it. I am proof that becoming homeless can happen to anyone.
Ben’s Story
When you live on the streets, you just can’t see how you are going to do anything else with your life. It takes everything out of you to just survive. Gradually, depression, despair and embarrassment took hold. When I moved in with Turning Tides, it was the first time in a very long time that I felt safe and had a reason for living.
Gemma & Dale’s Story
We went from speedboats and holidays to living in a car for a year – it has been a difficult journey for us both. With the help of Turning Tides, who went above and beyond, we are on the right path to turning our lives around – and coming out stronger on the other side. They helped us out of what seemed inescapable.
Jordan’s Story
I am in a happier place now but it has always been difficult right from the start. I was neglected growing up and throughout my life I’ve experienced every type institution – care homes, mental health services, prison, hospitals – but only Turning Tides managed to help me turn my life around. They never gave up on me.
Get Support
If you are homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless, we are here to support you. Please visit our help section for advice, information and support from Turning Tides and other local services.
