My future dream is to be a midwife. I love the idea of taking care of women who are about to bring life into this world. Getting into a care or support work role will help me build my skills to reach that end goal when the time comes.
I became homeless when I came to this country as an asylum seeker 3 years ago. We were staying in shared accommodation for those without access to benefits at first. Once our papers came through, my 4 children and I were placed in temporary accommodation provided by the council. Due to childcare responsibilities, I haven't been able to work and therefore my benefits are capped. This causes such a financial strain and every month feels like a struggle at the moment.
Last year I was supported by Beam's Emergency Coronavirus Fund which made a huge difference to me and my children during the multiple lockdowns. My children are my world and I just want to be able to provide for them the best I can.
Now that my 2 year old can go to nursery, I'm in a position to get back out there and focus on my career development. The extra money will go a long way in helping the family live more comfortably too. Some day soon I'd like to think that we won't be reliant on welfare benefits and food banks any longer and that I can achieve financial freedom.