Facing homelessness for the first time

When Jill* lost both her parents within just two and a half years, everything changed. The home she’d shared with them her entire life was a place full of memories, love and routine, but after their passing, she was unable to stay due to tenancy succession rules. At 51, Jill suddenly found herself without the people and the home that had always been her world.

Having spent her whole life caring for both of her parents until they passed away, Jill had never lived alone or shared accommodation before. Navigating homelessness services was completely new and immensely challenging, and she was also coping with both mental health difficulties and bereavement. Jill often voiced that she felt like she couldn’t go on.  

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Finding support and stability

But with support from Cambridge Cyrenians, she began to take small steps forward. While living in our accommodation, Jill started attending a local weekly art and craft group and a weekly wellbeing group, both of which she still enjoys today. At the charity she regularly attended, they suggested she try person-centred counselling, which she has agreed and has continued to benefit from.

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Learning, volunteering and growing

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With encouragement from staff, Jill completed a healthy eating and exercise programme and has plans to join a new one through her GP after her recent one was sadly closed. Our Meaningful Activities Manager also supported her to enrol on a computer course, and after completing it, Jill began volunteering with the same organisation.

Recently, Jill was awarded an A-Band through the Homeless Action Resource Project (HARP) and moved into her own social tenancy - her first home since losing her parents. We also successfully supported her PIP (Personal Independence Payment) application, giving her more financial stability as she settles into independent living. This was something we had to fight for, up to the tribunal process, but it’s been a huge help for Jill.

Jill continues to be supported by our mental health practitioner for a limited period, due to the positive progress she is making and as she has now started therapy. Jill has been referred to and accepted by our Older Homeless Service project worker, meaning we’ll continue to support her for as long as she needs us.

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*Name changed to protect individual's privacy.

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