Michael's story: "It's hard to trust people but I feel safe here"
With our support he's broken the complex cycle of homelessness
Michael had an undiagnosed learning disability and had been sleeping rough for years.
Struggling to engage with any support services, he was caught in a cycle of homelessness. His mental health was deteriorating and he was hospitalised with panic attacks.
Michael was supported by our specialist mental health worker. She has experience of working with people with learning disabilities and was slowly able to build his trust. When Michael moved into Porchlight housing, we helped him register with a GP so that he could manage his medical needs.
Michael says: “It’s hard to trust people when you’re on the streets but I feel safe here, with people around me that listen and care. I’m so much stronger mentally.”
His confidence has grown and he’s started to feel like a valued member of society again.
If you, or someone you know, are experiencing any of the issues in this article, find information here about our housing and mental health services.
