It was  a bright autumn morning as I passed through the gates, it was only then the moment  become real; I had waited years for this time to be reunited with my daughter without time limits and restrictions. Then reality struck, I had no accommodation and not a clue how to get any. I was looking at sofa surfing (as they now call it).  The council may have had an obligation to house you but they use every trick in the book not to house you. Quote: you made yourself intentionally homeless by going to prison.

So now I was at desperation point and without any idea where to turn to, I surfed the internet and found some housing associations but they were unable to assist as I did not meet there criteria I had to be an alcoholic or drugs dependant to qualify (I was tempted to comply).

I then came across St Giles Trust, I phoned without much hope why should they be any different than the others. The phone was answered by a very kind voice that listened to my plight and was not put off by my desperation and by now uncontrollable crying. He put me through to a case worker, Antonia, who again listened, comforted me and actually gave me some hope.

I came into St Giles, everyone was friendly and not judgemental.  It had been a while since I had been able to talk so openly about my past and issues. The advice I received helped me force the council to give me temporary accommodation whilst St Giles helped source a more permanent housing solution. During this period Antonia was always available for anything just even if I needed a voice at the end of the telephone and their doors were always open.

The letter came from the council I had been declined accommodation.  I called St Giles and they secured me accommodation ideally located, close to my daughter and amenities. They were totally unfazed and this gave me confidence.

They sorted out the crisis loan, and although it was a long day going place to place and back and forth when I eventually got the keys and was able to open the door and close it the relief was phenomenal. It was the first time in over 2 years I felt I was actually taking control of my life. I was the one who could make the rules open and close my door, no more sharing facilities and a hundred other meaningless things that mean nothing to anyone who has never found themselves in this position. At last I started to feel like a person and maybe I could get my life back on track.

St Giles was still there for me, and I started to settle into my new neighbourhood and if you thought this was the end then think again. Two weeks later the landlord offered me a job in his office a couple of days a week. This grew into full time and I have now moved on to a full time position with another company.

None of this would have been possible without the caring assistance and support from Antonia and all the staff at St Giles. The day I came across them changed my life and even now it is still a comfort that they are there. No words can ever describe my gratitude for all they have done for me and I will always carry them in my heart. They never ask for anything or praise but the good work they do for all those who come across their doorway should be shouted from the roof tops.