Helping people makes me really happy. Having the independence that comes from being in work also makes me really happy. I've been in work for most of my life, so this is a bit of a strange situation to be in.
I'm currently living in a private housing association accommodation. The rent is quite expensive, but I'm receiving some assistance due to being out of work which helps. My housing issues started when I left my last job and apartment to go and become a carer for a friend in Milton Keynes. When I returned to London it was difficult to find a place as I hadn't been earning the same level of income I was before. I started sofa surfing with friends until I was able to be in my own space.
I first started privately renting after my marriage broke down and I moved out of my marital home. I've always been someone that has worked and tried my hardest to support myself, but even when I was in work, I found myself having to relocate over the last few years because of rent increases by landlords. I always knew that housing market in London was a bit like a game of snakes and ladders, but it's different experiencing it and ending up back at square one.
Being homeless is the biggest obstacle I've had to overcome. Not having a place to stay creates a really destabilising feeling. You feel like you're in people's way. Even with friends, it's a different experience living together, and it's not necessarily great for the relationship you have with them. Having to move around from place to place and from sofa to spare room is really discouraging. I'm really grateful that I didn't catch Covid during the time I was waiting for my housing association accommodation - I'm not sure what I would have done.
I'm excited to start working as a carer because I can see how important carers are. The pandemic has meant that there's a greater need for carers, especially male carers and I want to put myself in a position to help both the government who are overwhelmed and importantly the people in the homes that actually need the support.
My dream is to become a licensed carer. I want to progress and become a manager so that I can ensure from a higher level that people are getting the care they deserve. I believe in having a high standard in whatever you do and I'd like to bring that to my new career.
I feel really appreciative of the people willing to support me. I'm usually the person that gives help and I'm rarely receiving help. But honestly, this help is making such a big difference to me mentally, financially and emotionally. Having people there who are able and willing to listen to me, and are helping to point me in the right direction is great. The support I'm getting from Beam is tangible but also helping me feel mentally better about my situation. It's such a great service and I feel really heard. I'm very happy with the support and can't wait to get into work with their help.