19th December 2024
Sanctuary Supported Living
Daniel with Project Worker, Shaan
This Christmas, Daniel is reflecting on how far he’s come. After years of struggling with homelessness and addiction, he’s now celebrating his first festive season in the safety and comfort of his own home - thanks to the unwavering support of a local supported housing team.
Daniel's life took a downward spiral in July 2021 after a house fire left him homeless. The months that followed were chaotic, with Daniel sleeping rough and moving through temporary accommodations. His long-standing battle with alcohol dependency, which began at just 14, and heroin use, which he overcame earlier this year, only added to the challenges. “My mental health really suffered, and my drinking got worse,” Daniel recalls.
But his story took a hopeful turn in March last year when he arrived at Sanctuary Supported Living’s Stanley Grove, which provides accommodation and support for rough sleepers in Manchester with complex needs.
“The staff at Stanley Grove made me feel welcome from the start,” he says. “They believed in me and put all the support I needed in place. It’s the best service I’ve ever been in. The staff are caring and non-judgmental.”
With help from the Stanley Grove team, Daniel began to rebuild his life. Through referrals to mental health services, support with benefits, and practical essentials like accessing a smartphone, the team gave him the tools to gain independence and confidence. “Having the facilities to cook for myself was a big deal - it made me feel more like I was getting my life back on track,” he says. Within just two weeks of arriving, Daniel knew he was finally on the right path.
"Having my own home means everything"
Celebrating his new chapter, he says: “Having my own home means everything,” he says. “It’s helped me reduce my drinking, stay off heroin, and focus on my future. I feel settled and safe. On Christmas Day, I’m looking forward to heading back to Stanley Grove for lunch, spending time with the staff who’ve supported me so much, and reflecting on how much my life has changed.”
Daniel has also reconnected with friends from his hometown of Northwich, offering him a sense of community as he continues his road to recovery. He’s optimistic about the future, with plans to begin a detox programme in January to achieve long-term sobriety. “I hope to stay in my home, become completely alcohol-free, and continue building a stable life,” he says.
Daniel’s transformation is a testament to the personalised support Sanctuary Supported Living provides, helping individuals gain the confidence and skills to move forward. “Stanley Grove gave me the stability I needed to rebuild my life and become independent,” he shares.
As he reflects on his journey, Daniel offers encouragement to others facing similar struggles: “Engage with all the services available to you, attend every appointment, and accept the support offered. It can change your life.”
For more information about Sanctuary Supported Living’s services for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, see our latest news or find a service near you.
