Charlotte is a level 3 qualified personal trainer, well-being coach and teaches boxing and self-defence classes for women. She is also a valued team member of a drop-in service offering haircuts and a safe place to stay for people experiencing homelessness. Her days are busy and filled with purpose.

They are a long way from where she was a few years ago.

When we first met Charlotte, she was battling a crisis in every direction, and with no support, she felt like she was drowning. She explains:

“I was in a dark place and every part of my life was falling apart. I was trapped in an abusive relationship and I didn’t have anywhere to escape to, especially as I needed a roof over my head for my two sons. I was in arrears, bills were piling up that I couldn’t pay, I was receiving letters from the court, my mental health plummeted and I was stuck in a hole I couldn’t get out of. I needed a lifeline.”

In the run-up to Christmas, things became so bad for Charlotte that she couldn’t see a way out and tried to end her life.

“When you’re going through something like that, you think you’re the only one. I know now that I’m not and I want other people to know they aren’t alone too.”

Charlotte felt that she couldn’t trust or rely on anyone for help. Dressed in a Christmas jumper, Single Homeless Project Support Worker, Mark, surprised Charlotte with an armful of presents, food and Christmas crackers for her and her son and a plan to help. He just wanted her to know that she could trust him and that he was there to help. The plan worked. 

Working together, Support Workers Mark and Jay helped Charlotte to take a step back and deal with one issue at a time, sorting out the financial support she was entitled to and finding her somewhere safe and secure to live.

She says “Single Homeless Project didn’t just sort out my life financially, they gave me my power back. They reminded me of who I was and what I could achieve. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them”

“What a journey it’s been. Things are looking very different for me now. To be in a position to help others when before I couldn’t help myself – it’s such a great feeling. I’m taking so many positive steps.”

Jay is so proud of everything Charlotte has achieved and where she is today.

Single Homeless Project didn’t just sort out my life financially, they gave me my power back.

“Motivated, strong, committed” are the three words used to describe Charlotte by her support worker Jay. The pair have worked together for the last three years. When I look at how far she’s come, I’m so proud. I’m beaming.”

Charlotte is joining our call to action for the Government to increase Local Housing Allowance and raise the benefit proportionality. She says:

“I know what it’s like when you’re staring at those unpaid bills and wondering how on earth you’re going to pay them. It’s a dark place to be and that daily threat of homelessness severely affects your mental health. Surely it makes sense for the Government to help people stay in their own homes by giving them a fair chance at making ends meet? Because what’s the alternative?”