When Sarah first came to Barnabus five years ago, life was incredibly tough for her. She was caught in the cycle of addiction and often prioritised substances over her health and wellbeing. Despite every offer of support, from seeing our nurse, to accessing showers, to attending recovery and mental health groups, Sarah wasn’t ready to take that step towards change. During this time, she struggled with self-neglect and was unable to engage with the help that was available. Sarah was in and out of our support centre for five years but we stuck by her side and explained that we will always be here for her when she’s ready to engage and accept help. During this time, she struggled with self-neglect and was unable to engage with the help that was available.

Everything has changed in the past six months

With ongoing encouragement and consistent support from our team, Sarah has made remarkable progress. The staff at the Beacon have walked alongside her every step of the way, offering not just practical help, but also the patience, consistency and compassion that have been so important in building trust. By creating a safe and welcoming space where she feels valued, the team has helped Sarah begin to believe in herself again. She now comes into the Beacon every day, making full use of our shower facilities and meeting regularly with our nurse to look after her health, something she had previously neglected. The team has also supported her to access specialist alcohol and drug services, as well as the rough sleepers’ team, ensuring she has the right professional help in place for her recovery journey. These small, steady steps, supported and encouraged by the Barnabus team, have made a huge difference. Sarah’s confidence has grown noticeably; she is now chatty, bubbly and open to building relationships with staff and other guests. For us, it’s a joy to see her transformation each day and to celebrate just how far she has come. Her journey doesn’t stop there. Sarah is now working closely with Manchester City Council and is on the waiting list to be housed. After years of instability, she is moving closer to a future where she feels safe, supported and secure.

Sarah’s story is a powerful reminder that change is always possible, even when it feels out of reach. With compassion, persistence and partnership, lives can be transformed. We’re so proud of Sarah’s courage and determination and we can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds for her.

If you can please support Barnabus so that more people like Sarah can move off the streets and find new hope and new homes.

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