I am a single father of two adorable daughters who are in primary school. Five years ago I gained custody of them following intervention by children’s services due to their mother’s mental health difficulties. This was a heartbreaking moment for us all, since the impact on the children and family was excruciatingly painful. I had to give up my professional career in order to provide full-time care to both girls as they had been placed on the ‘Child At Risk’ register.
Shortly after, I was evicted and made homeless with both my children. The landlord wasn’t keen to let his property to tenants on benefits. I could not secure another accommodation, because most estate agents and private landlords were equally reluctant to offer accommodation to tenants on benefits.
For two years following our eviction, the children and I were placed in hostels and moved from place to place by the council. This was an extremely difficult time for us. My older child had to undergo a year of psychotherapy to help her overcome her emotional and psychological trauma. I was myself going through difficulties with all these changes and at some point was diagnosed with depression. Luckily, we received assistance from medical professionals, social workers and friends. We are currently settled in a private rented accommodation secured by the council.
Now that my girls are older, in years 3 and 5, I believe it’s time for me to start rebuilding my life and career. My daughters are happy for me as they see that daddy is now more hopeful and positive about the future. They overheard me speaking about organizing childcare the other day and came home two days later with some flyers for after-school club that they got from school. I am so proud of them!
As a Business Economist in my previous career, I have always wanted to progress onto a career as Business Analyst. I find that reviewing business systems and processes, and engaging with stakeholders for overall business growth is a big part of my business sense. It is exciting, challenging and fits my personality.
What gives me confidence to pursue my career again is the fact that my daughters have finally adjusted well from the past difficulties. It makes me really happy seeing how we are now successfully dealing with our daily challenges.
Getting into work as a Business Analyst will set me up well to provide the right environment for my children to thrive in and move into a privately rented place that we chose and love.
Beam are working with Anthony because he was recently homeless.