Client Case Study

Vic

Stories of how Hope4 has changed lives and impacted clients circumstances for the better

Vic’s story

Vic (not his real name) arrived in the UK from Germany with his girlfriend in early 2018. Both eager to pursue their plans and secured jobs at a warehouse after obtaining National Insurance Numbers, but the language barrier led to tensions with superiors, resulting in Vic’s dismissal and subsequent homelessness. A friend brought them to the Hope Centre in September 2018 where they received essentials like a tent and sleeping bags, along with access to daily meals, showers, and laundry facilities.

Relationship challenges exacerbated by alcohol misuse saw Vic’s partner moved to Scotland in December 2019. Struggling with isolation and unemployment Vic’s situation worsened. The COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020 saw many who had been homeless housed in temporary accommodation, however due to breaches in conduct, he faced renewed homelessness.

From April to June 2021, Vic shared an apartment with a friend, leading to warnings due to disruptive parties. Street homeless once again, he faced mental health issues and attempted suicide in July 2021. Vic’s Key Worker intervened, securing temporary housing and made sure he had regular support. His mental health improved, and he mended ties with his friend.

However, strained relations led to a breakdown, prompting registration with Hope4's Winter Project which allowed him to be temporarily housed. Vic engaged on a daily basis with the Hope Centre staff and experiencing positive changes in his mental well-being. The stabilizing environment allowed him to contemplate his future, he decided to leave the UK after not receiving a response from the Home Office on his settlement status. A family connection in Finland offered him a job at a factory, solidifying his decision to relocate.

In January 2022, the Hope Centre staff helped Vic organise his departure, assisting with a Covid pass, purchasing a ticket to Tampere, and providing airport transport. After a brief hotel stay, Vic embarked on a journey to Finland, marking the start of a new and promising chapter in his life. He has been in touch with the Hope Centre and is doing well.

Casework Carried Out

  • Many welfare checks throughout his time with the Hope Centre

  • Provided access to food, PCs, laundry, clothing, clinic

  • Supported his application for settled status

  • Provided foodbank vouchers to access food for cooking at home (when he had it)

  • Provided bedding and furniture as needed

  • Provided him a place of safety during some of his darkest days

  • Advocated on his behalf with the local authority, safeguarding, and Home Office for the various elements of support needed at the time

  • Provided funds through the Winter Project for him to leave the UK and move to Finland

Progress

Vic’s Key Worker said, “Vic registered with the Hope Centre not long after his arrival in the UK. We supported him as his life change with its ups and down - on his darkest days but we have also seen his confidence grow through having stable accommodation and the support of we and the local authority gave. He was then able to make very important and life changing decisions. When he was leaving the UK and our charity we didn't see a homeless person anymore, but a confident, strong man, ready to face life's adversities and joys.”