Insight/Case study - beneficiaries

M. (Birmingham)

I have mental health issues. I am very shy and retiring by nature, so to write this now is something of a personal achievement. I am, however, very articulate when given the opportunity to speak and able to put across my views when I feel that I will be listened to – which never used to be very often.

I was selling The Big Issue magazine quite successfully for a time and had built up a good customer base. Then Foundation staff began to notice that I was turning up less often, that my general physical and mental state seemed to have deteriorated considerably. They noticed I just retired into my shell more and more.

I was invited in to The Foundation’s private interview room for a chat and they soon got to the route of my problem. Someone just had to take a bit of time with me. I had been inappropriately housed by an unscrupulous landlord in what is termed a 'wet' house for alcoholics. I was already a vulnerable person and was now suffering harassment from both residents and landlord who accused me of things I had not done.

I was on the verge of being evicted and was afraid of becoming homeless and having to sleep on the street.

Fortunately the Foundation successfully referred me to an agency catering for those with mental health issues in a house providing supported living. I had fallen through the net of Mental Health services but I am now accessing treatment again. I have a care plan in place at my new home and am working towards independent living.

With permission.

Read more inspiring case studies of people who have benefited from working with social enterprises working to prevent or tackle homelessness.