What is it like to be newly homeless?

We spoke to a client who recently became homeless about sleeping out in Shrewsbury.

Photo used with permission from Nathan Webster

"I fell out with my girlfriend and had to move out. I didn’t have anywhere to go. I stayed with my mum for a short while, but there wasn’t space for me to stay indefinitely, so I became homeless about two weeks ago.

"Since then, I’ve been sleeping out in Shrewsbury town centre. I found a tent and made some friends. I try to stick with good people, because there are a lot of bad influences out there. Some encourage you to use drugs — for them it means cheaper prices if more people join in. That’s not the path I want.

"Right now, I don’t see a clear route back, but I know I’ll find one. I had a good job before, and though I couldn’t keep it going, I believe I can get back on my feet.

"Sleeping out is hard. When it rained this morning, I started to dread the coming winter. People tell me that once it gets cold and wet, it’s a different story. Even now I’ve had a few nights where the cold stops me sleeping properly. In summer, it’s not as bad — I can get a good night’s rest on a warm evening. But I don’t want to be stuck outside when the weather turns. You end up wet, muddy, and cold all day.

The hardest part is housing. I’ve never had to look for a flat before, and it feels like there’s next to nothing available — even in private renting. I don’t know the process, but thankfully I’ve got friends helping me. Even then, we’re hitting brick walls, because it’s so competitive.

"The Ark has been a lifeline. I’ve only been coming here for four days, but already they’re helping me look into PIP and find a place of my own. Having a home would give me the stability I need to get back into work. I’ve got years of experience working with cars, and I’d love to get back into that trade."

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