Just over a year ago, my life was full of sunshine. I enjoyed my work and relationships and my road was paved with happiness. Even though some days were cloudy, I never dwelled on it and embraced learning.
I happily rented a flat from my best friend for six years. I had a routine: I would work hard all year, and then go away for as long as possible over Christmas. Because of this I rarely had any savings, but I enjoyed life. Then, in January 2020, I returned from holiday to find my best friend had kicked me out. He had started taking Class A drugs and had completely changed as a result. I felt at a complete loss - and then I lost my job due to Covid.
A friend offered me his spare room so I moved in, but I didn’t know that he was also addicted to drugs. At first he seemed like a godsend, but now the situation is a nightmare. He threatens and bullies me every day. I’ve become a prisoner and I’m afraid to even use the kitchen because I know he’ll shout at me and become aggressive. He insists I pay him a high rent even though he knows I lost my job and can’t afford it. I have so much debt, I can’t keep track. This year has pushed my mental health to the limit, which has had a scary affect on my physical health too.
Then I was introduced to Beam. My adviser Charlie listened to me and comforted me, and told me that she would do everything she could to help change my situation. I’ve always worked, so I had no idea how the benefits system worked. Now, I’ve finally got the guidance I need to better my situation. The process frightens me as I’ve never done anything quite like this before, but I’m hopeful for the future.
The most important thing for me is getting a stable place to live. After that, I want to return to work in the security industry. I have worked in security for a long time but my license is due to expire - without Beam I wouldn’t be able to afford to renew it. I love to be around people as a leader and previously I have been a line manager in charge of 10 security guards. I’m looking forward to undertaking further management training through Future Learn so I can develop my communication skills and have a successful career.