For me, satisfaction comes from knowing that I have done something well. I enjoy helping people and eventually I see myself progressing into charity work. In two years' time, I'd like to have stability in my life and a roof over my head. I can see myself doing cook ups for people who are homeless. At the moment, they do stuff like that at Christmas but I'd love to help people out like that all year round.
I first became homeless six years ago after a relationship breakdown. I was living with a long-term partner and we were on our way to marriage. I had nowhere else to go after he kicked me out and have spent the last six years sofa surfing where I can.
There are a lot of stereotypes around homelessness and I've often been told by people when they learn of my situation that I don't 'look homeless'. This really shocked me because you don't have to look rough or dirty to be homeless. Homelessness doesn't always leave physical scars. I am a clean person and I take baths or showers whenever I can. I really struggle when I have to go a day without washing.
I am really looking forward to getting into care work. I feel like my only achievement in life has been my son, who is now grown up and at university. I want him to be proud and I want to give back to my community. As a carer, you can really impact someone's daily life, helping keep them clean and dignified.
Things haven't fully improved for me yet but they are starting to. There is a light at the end of this very dark tunnel. Beam has given me that light.