Paul’s story

Losing my tenancy sent me on a downward spiral. I found myself bouncing between supported accommodations and  homeless hostels, life there was anything but stable. These places were supposed to help, but instead, they became a source of constant chaos and a life of regret and hopelessness.

Living in these environments pushed me to the edge. I started injecting drugs for the first time. I was bullied by other residents, losing my phone, money, and bank card to people demanding I fund their habits. I got into fights when I refused. The constant fear, threats, and pressure to fit in drained me. I stopped seeing a way out. I remember crying in my room, afraid to even step outside because of the threats. More than once, I felt like giving up completely.

But everything changed when I got my  flat with SCS Homes on February 28, 2024. This was through the help of Simon Community Scotland and Charlie who works in the SCS Homes team. For the first time in years, I had a space I could truly call my own; a safe, clean and peaceful place. I didn’t have to constantly look over my shoulder or deal with the toxic atmosphere of shared accommodations and living in homeless hostels. That flat  gave me the chance to work on my recovery and rebuild my life.

The impact has been massive. Being in my own space and having my own home has helped me focus on my  recovery. My mental health has improved too. I sleep better, I’m less anxious, and I actually feel hopeful about the future.

I’ve also rediscovered my confidence. 

Having a stable home has also allowed me to connect with the local  community. I’ve started building relationships with people outside of that old lifestyle, and I feel like I’m part of something again.

SCS Homes has been life-changing for me . Without them, I might still be stuck in temporary accommodations, homeless hostels and fighting to survive each day. 

Simon Community Scotland doesn’t just provide housing but hope, a safe space and a real chance for me to build a better stable life.

I finally have hope, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.

Paul

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Charlie West from SCS Homes with Paul