My journey to Emmaus started when I was kicked out of my family home at 16. I had been struggling with undiagnosed mental health issues, but I was just seen as a “naughty kid.”
With no support, I ended up living in different kinds of temporary accommodation – friends’ sofas or sheds, tents – anything I could manage at the time.
Being homeless meant constant instability. I fell in with the wrong crowd, developed a drug problem, and drifted further away from any sort of stable life. Daily life on the streets was very hard: I never knew what was coming next. I didn’t know when my next meal would be, or when I’d next be able to sleep somewhere warm and safe. Sometimes I’d come back to my tent to find it slashed open, everything taken, and all my clothes gone. I’d be left with nothing and have to start from scratch again. It was a daunting and scary time.
After about four rough years, I knew I needed a change. It was either find help or continue down a path that wouldn’t end well.
Finding a place at Emmaus
I’ve been at Emmaus Coventry & Warwickshire for just over a year now, and before that, I spent some time at Emmaus Colchester.
After years of not knowing where I’d sleep, when I arrived at Emmaus it felt amazing just knowing I’d have a bed, a roof over my head, and meals provided. I felt a feeling I’d never had in my life before: just pure excitement and relief. I was like a kid in a candy store!
I felt like a massive weight had lifted. That excitement helped me through the adjustment period, but it wasn’t all smooth. Coming from a tent, it took me a while to adapt to living with others in a structured environment. But over time, Emmaus gave me a sense of stability I’d never had before.
Rebuilding my mental health and confidence
Mental health has always been a challenge for me, and the staff here have been incredible in helping me manage it. They got me back on track with my medication and even arranged counselling. For me, talking things through is what helps most, and just having someone to talk to without judgment has made a big difference.
As my mental health gradually improves, so does my confidence. I never thought I’d be good at a job, but I’ve proved myself wrong. I now help to run our Emmaus charity shop and our Bulky Waste service on behalf of the local council. I’m often surprised at how much I enjoy the work and the routine, which is something I never had on the streets. Every day now starts with a cup of coffee, then work – something small but that structure keeps me grounded. The variety keeps me motivated, and I enjoy the physical side of the work, especially after years of being outdoors.
Giving back
Emmaus has also given me opportunities to help others, which I find really rewarding. Through our solidarity work, we support families in need by offering them free furniture. It feels good because it helps keep them off the streets.
I’m passionate about giving back, especially to mental health causes, as I know firsthand how crucial that support can be. I recently joined in Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney’s sponsored Walk of Kindness and am now planning to climb Ben Nevis to raise funds for mental health charities. Giving back feels right, as I’ve been in that position myself where I’ve needed help and know the difference it makes.
A plan for the future
Emmaus has given me the security to dream about the future. I’m now working towards a plan I never thought would be possible when I was homeless. I hope to save up the money to train as a tree surgeon, and then join my friend in Devon, where he runs his own business. Emmaus has shown me I can work towards long-term goals, and the support I have means I don’t have to rush into anything until I’m truly ready.
A message to others
Emmaus has been a lifesaver for me. If anyone who’s homeless is thinking about coming here, I’d tell them to go for it. It might take some adjusting, but the community is here for you, and it’s a safe place to start building a better life. It’s been the stepping stone I needed, and I’m grateful for every day I spend here as I work towards a stable future.