Supported housing changes lives #startsathome

01/09/16

TM came to Newhaven foyer following eviction from another supported housing project within East Sussex. TM had completed the saha led Youth at Risk programme and approached the Projects Manager to seek the opportunity to live at a saha service.

On entry TM was an alcoholic. TM went through the warnings process for alcohol related anti social behaviour, whilst also receiving coaching to address addiction issues. TM was ambivalent about changing his behaviour but commenced work around cycles of change with the team. TM has excellent people skills and is a great cook. TM became involved in leading cooking sessions with other residents and developed his confidence within the Foyer. TM started to attend weekly music sessions in house and along with some other residents led the campaign to save Newhaven Foyer when funding cuts risked the future of the service. He worked with our life skills worker completing DIY projects within the service.

During this time, TM accessed his GP with staff support to discuss his mental health, which he has never spoken about before. TM came to the Foyer with depression and anger management issues. TM then stopped drinking. He completed an in house wellness recovery and action planning course and began to address his goals.

TM became involved with Albion in the Community and secured a placement at a local leisure centre, pursuing his goal of getting into the fitness industry. The Cowan Fund supported initial costs and TM completed his level 2 in personal training and 100 hours of work experience.

TM has now secured full time work and is in a stable relationship. His girlfriend is pregnant and they are both focused and planning their future. He has successfully completed the Foyer programme and is seeking move on accommodation. This has been an excellent progression. He wishes to obtain a DBS and public liability insurance and be the volunteer in-house gym instructor.

#startsathome