It's difficult to know where to start telling my story. I'm 64 years old and currently I'm sleeping in my car. I feel like I've really got nothing left in life. It's been well over a decade since I was last in work and while I have had some job interviews in the past, the job seems to always go to someone younger and fitter than me. Sleeping in my car for so long has meant that I've developed problems with my back, and a few years ago I lost nearly all my teeth, which has served a massive blow to my confidence. I never smile anymore out of embarrassment.
I've been turned down by a number of support services and referred to every form of scheme and programme to try and turn things around, but I've never managed to have any luck. I'm hopeful that Beam's support is what finally makes a difference. I've made every effort to search for work but it's hard to search online for jobs when you can't easily access Wi-Fi. I would use my local library, but I have to be a member, and to be a member, they say I need a registered address. There's a lot of resources which could have a big impact on my ability to search for work. There's also a lot of support I could benefit from, such as help with putting together a good CV.
Because of how self-conscious I am about my appearance, I feel the safest form of work would be something which I could do without having to engage with loads of people. I'm keen on the idea of being a night-shift care worker so that I can support people during the quiet hours, but of course I'm open to different roles!
All I want is to get into a better situation than the one I'm in now and to build back my self esteem. To get that back and to return to work would be a huge achievement. I hope that the support from Beam, as well as the support from all of you will get me closer to my goal.