World Homeless Day 2023: Trevor’s story

Tomorrow is World Homeless Day, a campaign highlighting the issues faced by people without a permanent home in our communities.

Throughout this week we’ll be sharing a series of blogs from people who access our homeless support services in Edinburgh.

Today we hear from Trevor* from our Tollcross View supported accommodation service who tells us how he has overcome challenges in life, and his hopes for the future.

1) Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your current situation?

Hello, my name is Trevor*. I was in prison for 15 years and released in April 2023. I’ve had substance use issues in the past but have thankfully managed to abstain for the past 13 years. I was made homeless after leaving my previous address which was only temporary. I currently volunteer on a boat twice weekly, speaking to people who have had issues with substance use and other issues with their mental health.

2) Can you tell us how you have overcome the challenges in your life? How has Hillcrest Futures helped support you?

Living at the Hillcrest Futures homeless service in Tollcross has helped me greatly. The support workers have helped me in areas such as accessing help for my mental health and also debt management. Having this support, even if it’s just someone to talk to is really beneficial. They have also helped me to gain access to foodbanks which has helped me to deal with the cost of living situation.

3) What lies ahead? How do you feel about your future and what do you look forward to most?

I feel optimistic about my future as I plan to gain some qualifications or take on some work supporting others with the various issues that have occurred in my life, such as homelessness and substance use. I hope to use my knowledge and understanding of these issues to assist others who are going through similar things. I’m glad to have the support of Hillcrest Futures who will help me to achieve these goals.

* Names have been changed to maintain confidentiality

To find out more about our homeless support services, click here.