Speaking about her experiences, Alex reflects on entering the Simon Community Belfast Foyer for the first time.
Story
Alex
I remember my first 24 hours; it was scary. I’ve never been in an environment with such a close group of people living together. Financially, I didn’t have anything sorted out. I didn’t understand the benefit system. That’s when the staff stepped in – they advocated for me and helped me with the benefits. They kept me strong whenever I felt like I couldn’t keep myself up.
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Paul
Paul, now aged 32, was bullied throughout primary school. Moving to secondary school, he soon found out that the same bully had followed suit, continuing to torment him throughout his adolescence and causing fear, anxiety and an overwhelming feeling of isolation. Unable to talk to anyone, Paul began considering taking his own life at the age of 16 but a love of his family persuaded him not to carry through with his plans.
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Eoin
When I first came here I didn’t have a job. I was coming out the other side of a drug problem. I didn’t really feel like anyone was here for me, and I felt lonely.
But over the last few weeks everything’s changed. I’ve been feeling welcome here. I’ve patched things up with my family. I’ve got a job.
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David
David didn’t know he was homeless until he arrived home to his flat and was unable to open the front door. Having spent time in numerous hostels over the years and fearful of returning to substance dependency again, David began having suicidal thoughts and reached out for help, finally finding a place at one of Simon Community’s accommodation projects.
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