Greater Manchester Housing First is changing lives every day.

A man in his mid-20s was recently accepted onto the pilot, in his own words he believed it was “his last chance to get a home.”

The man’s early life had been somewhat chaotic with drug and alcohol problems, mental health issues, he had been a victim of domestic abuse and had spells in prison.

This led to him rough sleeping, which included him living in a skip at times and accessing accommodation through night shelters.

Upon accepting a place with GMHF, the man chose the property he wanted, from those available, this included being away from negative influences so he could make a fresh start.

The team helped him to settle into his home, by access various funds to furnish his home and making it his. He was also helped to access to food vouchers and food banks.

Our staff are providing support to address his housing and health needs. He is engaged with his key worker on agreed terms and by having control of his support, he has begun to build his confidence and independence. He has also engaged with third party agencies to get the further support he wants.

Now he is working with these agencies, he is making great progress and is starting to take responsibility for his wellbeing – including his drug and alcohol use.

Although he’s in the early stages of his recovery, the future looks promising.