‘Alan’ had been rough sleeping in a tent by the river in Cambridge for several years. Previous incidents and behaviour whilst in accommodation had severely restricted his options.
Our team visited him at his sleep site with the CGL Street Outreach Team and, having originally declined our invitation to visit Crossways, he nevertheless arrived there a day or two later to look at a room, which he eventually accepted.
Alan appreciated the calm, inclusive and respectful space we have created at Crossways and began to work with our team to address his issues.
We were able to refer Alan to a second stage hostel, working closely with our colleagues at the City Council to address his arrears from a previous stay.
Alan found adjusting to the hostel environment a difficult one. However, with continuing support and encouragement from our Survive and Thrive team, he maintained his room there for over six months.
Alan made such great progress that we were able to recommend him to be the first resident at Joy’s Corner, ITAC Community Land Trust’s modular home project. Alan continued to receive regular support visits and began to feel like he was finally turning his life in a more positive direction.
After six months at Joy’s Corner, our team supported Alan in making an application for enhanced banding on the City Council’s Home-link system for social housing. Within three months of securing the enhanced banding he moved into his own council flat, where he continues to make great progress in building a better future.
Alan’s story perfectly demonstrates ITAC’s vision of working in partnership to support people experiencing homelessness on their journey from street to home.
