After leaving an abusive relationship and facing the reality of homelessness, Laoise arrived at Simon Community’s Newry project in February 2024. She was scared, alone, and unsure of what the future held. But through her own resilience and the support of the team, she began to rebuild her life.
This is Laoise’s Story.
When I arrived at Simon Community’s service in Newry in February 2024, I was terrified. I didn’t even want to walk through the door, never mind go to a room. I didn’t know what to expect.
“Would I be able to lock my door? Who would I be living beside? Would I be safe? After staying in crash beds in Belfast and facing judgment from people I trusted, I was completely out of my comfort zone. I felt vulnerable, scared, and alone.”
But from the moment I arrived, something was different. Two staff members were waiting for me at the door. One helped me with my bags, the other made me feel at ease with a smile. I was shown to a private room that locked. Finally, I had a safe space of my own.
In the days that followed, I started to breathe again. I was introduced to my support worker, someone I could speak to without judgment.
“She listened and treated me like a person, not a problem. That was something I hadn’t felt in a long time.”
Being a mother and experiencing homelessness is a pain I wouldn’t wish on anyone. Not being able to see my kids every day, not being able to give them the home they deserve, weighed heavily on me. I felt like I had failed them, even though deep down I knew I was doing my best to survive.
I didn’t tell many people about my situation. I was ashamed, and afraid they wouldn’t understand. But the people living here welcomed me with open arms. It was like living with big brothers. They looked out for me and made me feel protected.
Over time, I found myself growing in confidence. I was asked to write something for Mother’s Day, sharing what it’s like being a mum in temporary accommodation. The response was overwhelming.
“It helped me realise that even though I was struggling, my words could help someone else. That changed everything for me.”
Since then, I’ve joined the Female Advocacy Programme and taken part in an art project with Ulster University. I’ve become involved with Homewards as someone with lived experience, and I now attend monthly Zoom calls to help shape better services for people like me. I’ve even put myself forward as a peer researcher. I want to be a voice for people who are homeless or vulnerable.
“The team here have supported me through it all, my mental health, my benefits, even my surgery and recovery. They helped me stay connected with my children through my social worker, and slowly but surely, I am starting to believe in myself again.”
After everything I’ve been through, I’ve finally been offered a place to call home. Somewhere safe where I can be with my children again. It’s hard to believe it’s really happening.
“To all the mammies out there who are struggling, I want you to know this: I know it’s hard, but we have to leave the past behind and look to the future. A future where we get to be with our kids. I know some days it’s hard to get out of bed, but take your time. Set small goals. Take it one day at a time.
Rebuild yourself so you can be the best for your kids. It won’t happen overnight, but if you keep fighting, it will happen. And it will be worth it.
It’s okay to ask for help—we’re only human. Just remember, you are loved, and you do have people fighting with and for you.
I’m so thankful for Simon Community—for getting me back on my feet, helping me through my darkest days, and being a constant source of support and kindness. I’ll never forget them. They saved me when I didn’t even realise how bad things had gotten.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness or in need of support, we’re here to help. Reach out to our 24/7 support line at 0800 171 2222 click here to learn more about the support we provide.