Stories

Pete's story

When Pete* was referred to Cambridge Cyrenians by his social worker, he wasn't facing immediate homelessness, but he was at risk of losing his independence without urgent support.

His Older Homeless Service support worker, Lizzy, stepped in straight away, helping him get his benefits back on track. She arranged a mobility assessment to help him regain some independence and has kept working with him on the practical steps needed to get there. He sadly didn't meet the criteria for an Extra Care housing referral, so that's when Pete and Lizzy decided on a home renovation project.

Lizzy helped to transform Pete's home: decluttering, cleaning, helping him get a new sofa and furniture more suited to his needs, and arranging for a decorator to re-carpet and paint, turning it into somewhere cosy and liveable.

Life and organisation can feel overwhelming for Pete, so Lizzy provides the structure and consistency he needs. As he puts it: "It's good to know I can get in touch if I need help with something."

We also sourced Pete a laptop through our friends a Sustainable Tech 4 Good, helping him stay in touch with people, keep on top of his payments, and manage his weekly shopping.

Between Lizzy's support and regular carer visits, Pete is now doing well.

Throughout, Lizzy and our Older Homeless Service have remained a constant, reliable presence for Pete, there whenever he's needed support.

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Help us be there for more people like Pete

We're only able to continue our Older Homeless Service thanks to the kind donations from our supporters. If you would like to help us continue this vital service, please consider making a donation today. Thank you for your support!

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Find out more about our Older Homeless Service here: https://www.cambridgecyrenians.org.uk/services/older-homeless-service

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Graham's story

Graham* could not move on from Cambridge Cyrenians' supported housing for one reason: he had no valid ID. He would have been living on the streets without the help his Cambridge Cyrenians support worker who has been working with him from day one.

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Jack's story

Jack* is self-employed, has been in recovery for 14 years, and he has just moved into a new home through HomeLink. It hasn't been a straight road to get there. Jack experienced homelessness once before, alongside substance use. A relationship breakdown a few years ago left him homeless again, and he moved into one of our move-on houses to start rebuilding.

Read more

Jake's Story

It only takes one change in circumstances for homelessness to happen. For Jake*, it started with a rotator cuff injury at work. He lost his job, then his home, and found himself sleeping on a park bench in the freezing cold on his first night without one.

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