This week we have had some really good news from one of our friends.

James* came through our doors over two years ago. He was living on the streets and sheltering in a multi-story car park at night. He heard of Barnabus from a friend and came down one morning looking for help.

It was immediately clear that James was ready for change, his life had fallen apart and he was stuck in the grips of addiction. We helped him to receive the benefits he was entitled to, we connected him to healthcare and addiction services. But most importantly we were able to house him in a shared property, giving him the stability of a home whilst he addressed his troubles.

The Journey begins

James worked incredibly hard to overcome his traumas and addictions. He had regularly attended counselling for his mental health, as well as Care Grow Live (the council addiction service) for his drinking and cocaine use, and attended anger management therapy. He was flourishing on his journey of recovery. He was learning new things about himself and was working towards rebuilding relationships with his family and his son.

Suddenly, this was all placed into jeopardy when the landlord wanted to sell their property and served all their tenants with a section 21 eviction (no fault eviction). James had 2 months to leave his new home. This caused him a huge amount of stress, before the eviction his life had a clear direction and certainty for the first time in years. He was so frightened of the thought of going back on the streets and having to start from square one again.

Our housing team was very concerned that this stress would cause him to slip backwards and back into the arms of addiction. Supporting him became one of their priorities. After a lot of searching and speaking with landlords they were able to find him his own flat within his limited budget.

It's been a privilege

Despite the anxiety caused by the disruption James has continued to bloom in his new home. He now has regular time with his son, he has a healthy relationship with his new girlfriend and he has been clean from cocaine and alcohol for 19 months. He found himself employment and he is now working in construction and has received training through this. James has his goals set high and he is planning to do further training with his eye on a particular trade. He has even managed to save up to go on a little holiday.

James no longer needs our help but he keeps in touch letting us know how he is getting on and we are always there for him if he does need any help or advice. He recently rang us excited to tell our team that he had just passed his driving test, a dream of his and one which will help him to further develop his career.

We are so proud of him, it has been a privilege for the housing team to see his transition and his progress.

Help us bring transformation to the lives of more people just like James

*name changed to protect our friends identity