Kate lived with her partner in Leeds, but when the relationship turned violent she did the only thing she could. She left.
She arrived in Huddersfield with no family or friends to turn to. This meant she found herself sleeping rough, sheltering under a canal bridge.
One of the outreach workers from Simon on the Streets found me. She told me about the Mission, where I could get a hot meal and some help.
Once at the Mission, Kate was referred to The Welcome Centre for a food parcel. She then received advice from our Advice and Guidance Manager at The Welcome Centre, on how to get a homelessness assessment. She met with another support agency, Housing Solutions and was given temporary accommodation.
The Welcome Centre supported Kate with food and toiletries whilst her benefits claim was processed. As Kate had fled without her possessions, she had nothing to set up her new home. We provided a home starter pack of pots, pans, plates and cutlery as well as cleaning products, bedding and towels to try and make her temporary accommodation homelier.
Twelve months on Kate is now in a permanent flat. The Welcome Centre helped her to apply for a small grant, which she was able to buy some essential furniture. And the best news – recently she was offered a part-time job!
I can't believe how far I've come.I'm really proud of myself and thankful to you lot to.