Simon* lost his job as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. He left his home and started rough sleeping, as he could no longer afford his rent and utility bills.
A member of Street Reach staff approached Simon and offered him support. After being introduced to the service and accepting support, Simon was provided with temporary accommodation to stop him from having to go through another night on the streets.
Simon wanted to work again and he needed an address to help him achieve this. Staff helped him find long-term accommodation soon after he came to the service. They helped Simon throughout the process by attending the house viewing with him, meeting his new landlord and completing the tenancy agreement.
When Simon moved into his new home, Street Reach staff provided him with new bedding, a microwave, a kettle and cutlery. They also gave him a food parcel as he was struggling to cover costs between his Universal Credit payments.
Simon is under 35 years old which means that he is unable to get the full amount of housing benefit to cover his rent each month. Calderdale Council helped Simon to cover his housing benefit payments for six months, until he became more financially stable.
Simon continues to be supported by Street Reach. A joint meeting is planned between staff, Simon and his new tenancy sustainment worker. This will give Simon the chance to aim for his goals and look to a brighter future.
Simon is now settled in his new home. He is also receiving the correct amount of benefits and has enough food supplies to see him through to his next Universal Credit payment. Simon has been applying for jobs online and has upcoming job interviews. He hopes that he is able to find a job at the earliest opportunity.
*not his real name