Jeff's Story
FROM THE STREETS TO STABILITY: JEFF'S PATH TO A NEW BEGINNING
”
I just want to use this humble opportunity to say a
very big thank you to the SSG organisation for
rescuing my life. The support throughout my stay
has been wonderful, all the staff are amazing
people, the encouragement during support
sessions was so helpful.
When I got to College Road in December last year, I was in a very dark place in my life. Thanks to all the support I got, I'm doing a lot better now, I have HOPE again.
My resettlement worker has been very supportive all through the rehousing process, she guided me through all the necessary steps and information on how to get my house set up. My starter pack and furniture have all been delivered, I now have a home.
Once again, a very big thank you to SSG.
When I got to College Road in December last year, I was in a very dark place in my life. Thanks to all the support I got, I'm doing a lot better now, I have HOPE again.
My resettlement worker has been very supportive all through the rehousing process, she guided me through all the necessary steps and information on how to get my house set up. My starter pack and furniture have all been delivered, I now have a home.
Once again, a very big thank you to SSG.
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THE STRUGGLEJeff had been living in a one-bedroom private rented flat in Manchester when his situation changed drastically. The council deemed his home unsage, and he was issued a notice to quit. With no family or friends to turn to and unaware he could approach the council for help, Jeff spent the next three months rough sleeping around the city centre.
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LIFE ON THE STREETSHomelessness took a serious toll on Jeff's health. A type 2 diabetic, he struggled to access his medication without a permanent address, often travelling long distances just to get prescriptions. His mental health also suffered - diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and mood swings, Jeff felt increasingly hopeless and isolated.
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A TURNING POINTThankfully, outreach services found Jeff and referred him to College Road ABEN. When he arrived, he was in a vulnerable state - overwhelmed with worry, battling low mood, and unsure of what the future held. He needed reassurance and support to rebuild his confidence.
Jeff gradually began to engage with staff and was supported to register with a local GP. Together, they helped him address his diabetes, cholesterol, and mental health needs. Stable accommodation and regular medication helped his wellbeing slowly improve. With staff support, Jeff also accessed talking therapies, learning to recognise and manage emotional lows before they spiralled. -
RECOVERY IN PROGRESSAs Jeff's mental health improved, so did his social life - he reconnected with friends, started going on regular walks, and began thinking about work. After attempting a job interview, Jeff realised he was pushing himself too fast. With guidance from staff, he accepted that recovery takes time and that there were smaller steps he could take toward employment.
Jeff later moved to Kashmir House, our further supported accommodation, for longer- term support. He continued to build his confidence and work on improving his mental health. In time staff felt he was ready to manage a tenancy again, and Jeff was eager to start fresh. He was supported to register with Manchester Move and JJ Housing for over 55's and soon received an offer for a one-bedroom flat. -
A NEW BEGINNINGWith help from a Resettlement Support Worker, Jeff prepared for his new home. He secured starter packs through Real Change and Welfare Provisions, purchased essentials with money he had managed to save while in supported accommodation, and SSG sourced donated items from local charities. Staff supported him with moving in, setting up bills, and furnishing the flat.
Since settling in, Jeff's confidence has continued to grow. He now manages his tenancy independently and has started a part-time job, which he is enjoying and thriving in. He remains grateful for the support he's received and is proud of how far he has come
