Joanne* had to return to the UK following the passing of her husband whilst living overseas. After returning home, she was referred to Harrogate Homeless Project by Harrogate Borough Council for housing and support.

Whilst staying at our hostel, she actively engaged with her support worker every week to improve her budgeting and took advantage of all the available resources. As a result of her hard work, she was able to transition from our hostel to one of our move-on properties. She began to work with our psychotherapist for extra support regarding her mental health and over the months, she gained more confidence and independence and was ready for the next step to move into her own flat, which she accomplished successfully. Today, she is happy and content in her new home, where she is able to maintain her independence while still accessing any necessary support.

*Not her real name

Chloe* struggled with a heroin and alcohol addiction, which led to her eventually being admitted to rehab. After finishing her treatment, she found herself unable to find a place to live due to convictions for theft which were tied into her addiction and lifestyle at the time. She was referred to HHP by Harrogate Borough Council, for housing and support.

The hostel support team aided Chloe during her stay, helping her with budgeting, accessing financial aid, and finding appropriate private rental options. She also received support for continuing her abstinence journey and accessing other services. Chloe eventually moved into a private rented flat, maintained the tenancy for over a year, and can now see her children more often. She remains sober and volunteers to educate young people about substance and alcohol use.

*Not her real name

Fred* had been homeless many times over the years. This had been caused by alcoholism. Alcohol was his coping structure, and when he was stressed (e.g. problems at work) he turned to the bottle.

“HHP helped me a lot by providing access to SAFE (Service to assist Adults Facing Exclusion) project. I now have a home which is a permanent tenancy, my home is my castle. I had nothing to furnish it, so The Harrogate Homeless Project helped me furnish it. They helped me set up my bills; I am in credit now, I have a TV licence! Before doing anything now, I get my bills sorted. The Harrogate Homeless Project helped me access support services to help me realise properly about the addiction.”

“I got these glasses through from Harrogate Homeless Project, I love to read every day and I can see so much better”

*Not his real name