Stories

James was drinking heavily, using street drugs and was extremely aggressive and at risk to himself and others

If I had known the life that drugs would lead me into I would never have started

As his health declined rapidly, we made Anthony comfortable and respected his wishes at the end of his life.

After decades of self-neglect and periods of homelessness, David's life at Webster Court is much more settled

Steve had lost his tenancy in the community due to excessive noise and neighbour complaints, and had become homeless.

I have made some silly choices and some bad decisions

Sarah suffers from paranoid schizophrenia and alcoholism and has experienced a lifetime of abuse

Connor was drinking a lot and feeling low, but our team have helped boost his self-esteem and spark some hopes for the future.

David discovered yoga at Under 1 Roof and it has noticed a positive change in his anxiety levels and mental health.

Becky linked up with other organisations in Norwich during her stay at Bishopbridge House, which helped her break the cycle of homelessness.

Andy became homeless after a failed relationship. After a stay at Bishopbridge House, he is positive about securing permanent accommodation and gaining full time employment.

Ian is 43 years old and has a history of being arrested for disorderly conduct; a behaviour pattern that was aggravated by long term homelessness, mental health problems and dependency issues.

Colin had a good job as an engineer. However, his story shows how quickly a change in circumstance made his life spiral out of control.

Three years ago I had a big reality check. I found myself sitting in Norwich prison with a 12 month sentence - a fine mess!

Five years ago Michael was sleeping rough and misusing alcohol and drugs. With the help of St Martins, he has now got a place of his own and a paid job.

A traumatic childhood event sparked Kerry's drug addiction. She said,“I wish I had never taken drugs because they ruined my life..”

Phil had been homeless for 18 years and spent much of that time sleeping rough. A bad case of trench foot led Phil to finally accept a place in St Martins hostel.

Geoff, who is in his sixties, has been known to St Martins for at least 20 years. Over the years, Geoff circulated from the streets to hostels to prison, then back to the streets and it was a repeating cycle than seemed impossible to break.

Mike had a home and a job, but aged 56, he found himself rough sleeping on Castle Meadow in Norwich. With the help of the Pathways service, he is now getting his life back on track.