Homelessness doesn't discriminate

Juliette* 

Having lived with her mum for most of her adult life and now aged 40, Juliette had worked as a receptionist in the city but had unexpectedly become unemployed and been out of work for two years.  

Before, life had been fine,  Juliette paid her bills, loved going to work and enjoyed spending time with friends and family.  

Losing her job came as a shock and after a time, things at home with mum became difficult and arguments started.  She was asked to leave the family home and Juliette became isolated and lonely, not wanting to turn to friends or family to help.

She went to the Council who were unable to help her, but referred her to Hackney Winter Night Shelter, to make sure that she didn't have to sleep on the streets.

While she was at the shelter she worked with the Advocate Workers to look for accommodation.  Not long after, she was placed in supported accommodation in Hackney.  There she was able to settle and meet new people.  Juliette’s regained confidence enabled her to apply for jobs and she was offered a job as a receptionist at a GP surgery. 

When her time was up in the supported accommodation, Juliette came back to Hackney Winter Night Shelter to ask for support.  Our Advocate Worker worked with her and together they found a permanent flat in a local housing association. 

Juliette said:  “When you stay in a shelter you have a lot of time to think about your circumstances, in fact all you do is think about your circumstances.  I kept thinking ‘how have I come to this point in my life’ .  It’s a fact - being homeless doesn't discriminate.  You meet all types of people with unique circumstances.

The ironic thing about going through this very challenging time in my life was I don't think I would have achieved what I have achieved now, if I didn't become homeless unexpectedly.” 

* Guest names have been changed to protect their identity 

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