Junior's story
Before coming to St Mungo's, Junior slept rough "all over the place in south London".
Prior to this he had a job, a car and somewhere to live. Sadly, his work contract finished, he lost his flat and he was reduced to sleeping in his car. But he soon lost this as well and eventually ended up living on the streets, just as winter was approaching.
"It is the worst time. It's not nice. It's so cold; I was pleased to get off the streets."
Fortunately he started attending a drugs support service where a project worker referred him to St Mungo's. He moved in to one of our hostels in February this year.
Within a couple of months of arriving, Junior had started on the Pathways to Employment programme. He was determined to do something about his situation. Initially, he attended computer classes, learning basic IT skills, touch typing and how to search for jobs online. Soon his involvement increased and he began to participate in training opportunities, including a painting and decorating programme.
Junior has worked with the Pathways to Employment team closely over the last few months. In this time, he has grabbed every opportunity to really turn his life around. He is focused and has goals to aim for.
"Everything was a problem. But everything is coming together now. If you work hard you get results. I know what I want now."
Junior recently started the second phase of the Pathways programme, which involves full time work experience, helping to renovate another St Mungo's hostel. He is already seeing the benefits of his hard work. He was recently awarded the Crisis Liberty Grant to undertake a new specialist driving course for construction site machinery, which will give him rare skills that could prove vital in his search for employment.
"It's getting me back to work. I've learnt a lot it's giving me freedom; things are starting to open up."
Junior is determined to get back into work by the end of the year. At the same time he is looking to move into a place of his own.
Junior appreciates that moving to Cedars Road and joining the Pathways to Employment programme "changed my life". But his self-motivation has been just as important to his success so far;
"In a couple of years time I hope to be in my own place, have my own car and be working again. I will be getting on with life, living. I know things are moving in the right direction because I am getting results."