Homeless Awareness Week 2025
It’s Homeless Awareness Week, a campaign that encourages individuals and organisations to deepen their understanding of the causes and impact of homelessness, while shining a light on the support available to help people rebuild their lives.
As part of this campaign, we are sharing a personal account from PM, who is supported by Hillcrest Futures’ North Grimsby service. PM hopes that by sharing his story, others will gain a better understanding of what his experience has been like.
How Homelessness Has Affected Me By PM
In September this year, I found myself homeless after a relationship breakdown. I was referred to the North Grimsby service in Arbroath and was accepted.
I did not expect to become homeless at my age (66 at the time), but my relationship did not work anymore and I had to leave.
Since moving to North Grimsby, I have had to learn to be on my own. I found this difficult because I hadn’t lived on my own since I was 18. I enjoy being in company, and not having this anymore was a struggle to begin with.
However, the staff at North Grimsby are fantastic. They made me feel very welcome and helped me with everything I needed help with. They always make time for a cuppy and a chat, and reassure me that I’m doing well, especially on days when I’m not feeling great.
I have several health issues and my mobility isn’t the greatest. Staff arranged OT equipment for me so I’m safe in my flat. That really meant a lot to me.
For the first time in a long time, I feel happy and safe in my flat in North Grimsby, and I just love it here. Somewhere to call home!
Staff go above and beyond. I enjoy my support times as they give me an opportunity to get to know staff and for them to get to know me.
I was very worried when I first moved to North Grimsby and wasn’t sure what to expect, but it has been over two months now and I really can’t thank staff enough. I will always be grateful for everything they do. At times I still struggle being on my own but I’m getting used to it and I know staff will be here to help whenever I need it.
PM is pictured with support worker Jeanette Griffin on his 67th birthday. The pair enjoyed having a cup of tea and cake to celebrate.