Amy slept rough across different parts of London, on and off, for nearly 20 years. During that time, she experienced horrific trauma and was moved between temporary accommodation that didn’t meet her specific needs. 

Everything changed when she found SHP, and we were so relieved she did. 

“I wasn't able to accept support at the start. I was just like, yeah, arrange a meeting, and then I just wouldn't go. Then I had this feeling, like, now’s the time.” 

Amy finally found some peace - a sense of safety and stability in one of our specialist women-only hostels earlier this year. She's received bespoke support for her mental health and addiction and started to rediscover her motivation. Boxing, her dream of travelling, and a newfound ambition to work in construction drive her recovery everyday.

Sadly, for the past few years, Christmas has felt like just another day for Amy. She had nothing to celebrate. But this year, that's going to change.

“Last Christmas I sat and watched TV by myself. I didn't have a Christmas dinner, just some curry and chips. The last time I got a Christmas present was four years ago.”