Anna's story

Anna, a 40-year-old mum and her 15-year-old son found themselves living in temporary accommodation on a street in Newport which was renowned for being unsafe. Anna never imagined how difficult rebuilding their lives would be, so she turned to Ben…

“After many years of building a life in the UK, followed by three years spent in Poland, I returned to England with my 15-year-old son. I thought coming back would feel like coming home. I found work quickly, and for a moment, I believed everything would fall into place.

“But finding somewhere to live for the long-term proved almost impossible. Week after week, door after door closed. My savings slowly disappeared and the fear of becoming homeless grew heavier every day. I turned to the council for help and they placed us in temporary accommodation on a street well known for unrest and being dangerous.

“I was exhausted, scared, desperate and fighting a losing battle to find a home for my son and I. When it felt like my entire world was collapsing, I reached out to Ben. I didn’t expect much. I simply needed someone to see us and understand what we were going through. What we received was far beyond anything I could have expected.

“From the first conversation, I felt truly cared for. My Case Manager, who quickly became my guardian angel, listened to me in a way no-one else had. Every call with her, and with the mental health team, brought a sense of calm I had been missing for months. Little by little, the heavy fear about the future began to lift. For the first time in a long while, I felt safe.

“While we were homeless, I had access to emotional support whenever I needed it. On days when anxiety took over or hope slipped away, someone was there to help me breathe again. In the summer, Ben provided vouchers for food, essentials and even cinema tickets. My son and I loved our trips to see Naked Gun and Marvel’s Fantastic Four and this reminded us life could still be enjoyable, even in tough times. We are both big Marvel fans. 

“And then, finally, we moved into a new home. Ben helped us with the basics we couldn’t afford, such as beds, a washing machine and other essentials. Everything was delivered, installed or set up and brand new so we didn’t have to worry about a thing. I will never forget the look on my son’s face when he lay down on his very comfortable new bed!

“Ben’s support was hope when I was lost, strength when I felt weak and comfort when everything around me seemed to be falling apart. Most of all, it meant we weren’t alone anymore.

“I feel positive about the future and stronger, more confident, and ready for better days ahead. I’ve learned to stay calm in difficult moments, to reach out for help when I need it and to trust that I can face whatever challenges come next.

“To anyone thinking about contacting Ben, I would say do it. They will listen, understand and offer real, practical support. You don’t have to go through your struggles alone. Ben gave us the priceless gift of hope and a fresh start.”

Our client chose to remain anonymous, so her name and details have been changed and a stock image used.

 

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