My three daughters mean the world to me. I get involved wherever I can, helping with homework, taking them out, doing shopping for them, but I have not let them know the situation I'm in. It would be too difficult.
Not long ago I was staying with a friend, paying each week towards the rent from a part-time job I had as a chef. When the lockdown came, the restaurant closed and I lost my income. I had to leave my friend’s house and, with nowhere to go, I ended up sleeping on the streets for three nights. I didn’t really sleep during the night - it’s impossible, there are too many dangers. For my own safety, I stayed with a group of people in a similar situation to me, and I waited until daytime when it was safe to sleep. Being homeless like this is not a situation I would wish upon anyone.
Thankfully, after three days I was given a temporary room in a hotel by Southwark Council. That’s where I have been until now. I’m so grateful to have a place. It has been hard though, as I’m not allowed visitors so I haven’t really been able to see my daughters since the beginning of lockdown. The isolation of this experience has been a big problem for me - it’s a lonely experience to be in a room by yourself all the time.
I’m working with Beam to get into my own accommodation and to get a job as a security guard. To get my own place is so important right now. My daughters would be able to come and visit me. It will make me and them so happy and I believe it will even improve their school marks. Being able to see their dad is important!