Kieve’s Story
Kieve had been homeless for 15 years, spending a couple of years sofa surfing before sleeping rough for the last 13 years, travelling across Wales and southern England without support.
With poor family relations, Kieve struggles with his father and finds it hard to maintain a relationship with his mother. After leaving the Army where he served in the Welsh Guards he tried various jobs, but none worked out.
Following several back injuries sustained during his service, his condition worsened while sleeping rough. To manage the pain, he began self-medicating with various substances. Over the last five years, Kieve has become clean from several substances, but he continues to use cannabis for pain relief.
Concerns about Kieve’s wellbeing led to a referral to Alabaré, and he started living in their Swansea home in February 2024. This accommodation has provided him with safety, security, and peace of mind, enabling access to medical, financial, and social support. Kieve recognises the importance of this newfound stability in his life.
During his stay, Kieve has become involved with the Boots on the Ground service. Although he has struggled to engage with all activities, the team has accommodated his needs, allowing him to try new things and expand his social circle. Now, Kieve is exploring his options for moving forward and hopes to find his own independent accommodation once he has worked on his finances.
Kieve says, “Alabaré has given me a lifeline; I felt like I was stranded at sea, and Alabaré was the buoyancy aid. Alabaré has taught me that there are people who care and are willing to go the extra mile. I am loving life again and feel every day is positive and on point. I no longer go to sleep praying I don’t wake up. I am hopeful for the future and look forward to what is to come.”
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.
Find out moreHomes 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.
Find out moreBoots 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.
Find out more