I've worked in all sorts of roles - from warehouse roles, cleaning, admin, support worker roles and I’ve even worked as a chef. I'm interested in going back to warehouse roles as there are lots of job opportunities available and it’s something I’ve got experience in.
I’ve been in work pretty much my whole life, but two years ago I had a stroke and I had to leave work. That limited me for a long time. As a result of me having the stroke, I was on statutory sick pay of £330 a month. My rent was £1,500 and I couldn’t afford the shortfall which is why my kids and I had to move into a hostel. It’s difficult because my kids are young and they don’t understand. It turns out that I got lost in the system and didn’t receive the benefit entitlement I was supposed to receive, which made things worse.
I'm in a place now where I can start looking for work again. It’s taken me a few years to get here and build myself up, but I’m so determined to build a better future for my kids and me.