It's important to me that the people around me are happy and that I can put a smile on their face. This puts a smile on my face too and is good for my wellbeing.
My four kids and I have been in temporary accommodation for five years, since the end of my 17 year relationship. Southwark Council has supported us with housing, and I think that I have done well given the situation.
Most importantly, there was a turning point about a year ago when I decided to rewrite my story and to make my life positive. I applied for college where I’m now studying social work part-time, and I learnt how to drive. I wanted to take more control of my life and to improve our finances so I could look after my children better.
Through this process, I’ve learnt that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. When life gives you lemons, you can really make lemonade out of them. I learnt that it was not the end of the world to get into this situation, and I was not the first nor will I be the last in it.
I am working with Beam to become a support worker because I like looking after people. I’ve worked as a carer before and I know that I enjoy this sort of work. I also have four children, so altogether I have a lot of experience caring for others.