Our Support Workers struggled to gain Grace’s trust when she first came to stay in our supported housing. She had a history of mental health issues, including a psychotic breakdown, although she did not acknowledge her mental health issues. She also had a suspicion of support services.
She became homeless in 2019 when her ex-partner asked her to leave the family home that she shared with him and their two children,
followed by an injunction when she started sleeping on the doorstep. Grace spent some time in prison after she breached the injunction
and she went on to switch between sleeping rough and staying in hostels for a while. Finally, she came to live at our Templars hostel. Grace was reluctant to engage with her Support Worker but he and the staff team persevered. She had previously felt let down by support services, but when Grace’s father sadly passed away, it surprisingly, resulted in her becoming more open with staff. Her Support Worker made the most of this, engaging in some really good conversations, and so enabling him to better understand her position on things, helping to build trust and respect. It turned out that Grace was a very independent women but now at least she was beginning to accept help. In time, Grace was offered a one-bedroom flat that we oversee to move in to. As a result of her engagement, things are looking more promising for her getting back on the housing register and finding permanent secure accommodation. She sees her children every Saturday and is excited for the future. In her final meeting with her support worker, Grace thanked him for his support, commenting that Templars was the best hostel that she had stayed in and that the team cared for residents.
In a farewell card Grace wrote:
“I am getting moved as another hop, for hope. Thank you very much for your care, patience and help. It is much appreciated.”
