Simon’s Story
Simon sought help from our Chippenham homeless service after experiencing a period of rough sleeping due to the breakdown of his relationship. He was very withdrawn and struggling with a cocaine addiction.
Over time, Simon revealed that he was a victim of domestic abuse. His ex-girlfriend was using his situation to limit his access to his young daughter.
Working together, Simon and his support worker organised his finances so he could manage and keep on top of his commitments more effectively.
Despite initial hesitancy, Simon engaged with his GP and set up mental health support, understanding that this would improve his chances of gaining access to his daughter. Although he sometimes struggled to maintain his medication routine, Simon gradually took his responsibilities more seriously and once he managed to stabilise he moved into one of our move-on flats.
There were concerns about Simon’s drug and alcohol misuse. He was referred to Turning Point multiple times before he fully engaged. Since then, Simon’s alcohol consumption has significantly decreased, and he has achieved full recovery from drug misuse. The prospect of gaining access to his daughter and living independently motivated him greatly.
Simon continues to work diligently to maintain a relationship with his daughter, who recently moved farther away. He has gained confidence in dealing with authorities and feels empowered to represent himself legally, ensuring that his and his daughter’s best interests are protected. Simon has now applied for a child arrangement order, with a hearing scheduled soon.
Simon is now living independently while the team at the Chippenham homeless service continue to support him.
Get involved
Whether you are a church, school, or community group member such as Scouts or Guides, Mothers’ Union or Men’s Breakfast, we would love to chat about how we can help you support the work we do at Alabaré.
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Homes for Veterans
Our veteran pathway provides accommodation, training, wellbeing and support programmes to help ex-Armed Forces personnel who have struggled or faced homelessness in their civilian lives.
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Boots on the Ground
Veterans across our service and wider community can participate in outdoor pursuits run in a friendly, supportive atmosphere that promotes positive mental wellbeing to build confidence and self-esteem.
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