I've been homeless for four years due to fleeing a very abusive and controlling relationship. I ended up sofa surfing and living on the street. I was then housed in a hostel for two years. I felt so isolated and also constantly afraid, as I was housed with people in active addiction and it made my anxiety and depression really bad. I even ended up in addiction myself, to cope with the stress of being homeless. I've been clean for over a year now and I know I'm ready to rebuild my shattered life. Having left a really controlling relationship, I'm looking forward to regaining my independence in my own home.
I really hope Beam continues to help even more people with their excellent work. Knowing that there are people out there who are able to help me is absolutely life changing and it gives me so much hope. I want my new property to bring me both freedom and safety. I'll also feel much safer not being around all the chaos and challenges of being housed in a mixed sex hostel. I'll be able to start looking for work as I'll no longer be in temporary accommodation. I hope one day I can also help vulnerable women who have nothing and no one.