I spent most of my life working in East Africa where I was very happy, but circumstances beyond my control meant I had to leave for the safety of myself and my son. I have an Italian passport and my sister has lived in London for years so I came here hoping for a better life. We moved in with my sister; we all share a tiny room, me in a bed with my 11 year old son and her sharing one with her baby. I’d hoped this would be temporary, especially as my sister works night shifts in a warehouse...but it’s been over a year now.
I’ve desperately wanted to find a job since being here but it’s been much harder than I anticipated. Aside from my sister, I don’t know anyone and when employers ask I can’t provide professional references for the UK. I went to a local homeless day centre for help and that’s when they referred me to Beam. I have experience working as a beautician and it uses my creative talents and nimble hands (you can see one of my recent paintings in the ‘news’ tab). The training centre has good links with employers so I’m confident that - with your help - I’ll be doing a job I love and saving for a rental deposit in no time!