“Everyone needs support sometimes and it’s fine to ask for it…”

In the run up to World Homeless Day on 10 October, we’re sharing stories and information from our homelessness services, and from some of the people that access them too.

Here, Bruce, who has received support from our Cornerstone day centre, shares his experiences…

Could you please tell us a bit about yourself? 

I’m Bruce.  I’m 58 years old and I’ve lived in Manchester for three years.  I enjoy running, gym and coming to Cornerstone.

How did you find out about Caritas?

From other Manchester charities.

What led you to seek help here? 

I first came to Cornerstone when I was rough sleeping and didn’t know Manchester well.

What elements of our service have you accessed? 

I’ve had a range of support over the years.  Everything from housing support when I was rough sleeping, to energy advice when I had my own place.  I’ve had mental health support, the doctor, activities, food bank referrals, support with filling in forms, using the opticians and employment help too.

How did you feel about coming to us for support? 

Nervous and I didn’t want to ask for too much.  You help a lot of people here and they might need it more.

Did those feelings change once you got here? 

I felt very relieved and appreciative of the support.  I realised that everyone needs support sometimes and it’s fine to ask for it.

How has the team at Cornerstone helped you? 

They helped me get off the streets and now I’m in my own place, which I love.

I’ve gone through a lot of stages, but there’s help along the way.  In the beginning, it was more support with getting into accommodation and now it’s about staying where I’m at.

What benefits have you found from being here? 

Staff you can open up to and talk to without judgement.  I know I can come back with any situation and be helped.

I was rough sleeping and now I’m in my own flat.

I was helped into work and then to different training courses when I decided to take a different route.

I’ve had help with healthcare and energy.  There’s a lot on offer.

How are we different from other organisations you’ve come across? 

The staff are ready to help and are kind.  It’s more relaxed in a way, because it’s at your own pace and they’re ready when you are.

Caitlan always encourages me and helps me with decisions, but I don’t feel forced or like I don’t have a choice.

What do you wish people knew about people who are experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of being homeless? 

It can happen to anyone.  And you’re not alone if it does.

What are your goals for the future? 

Keeping up with my mental health, staying in a good place, staying healthy.

How is Caritas helping you move towards achieving those goals? 

Offering support and solutions.  I work with the staff here, or they encourage me to go to other services which might help.

There’s a lot of support available and the staff here are good at pointing you in the right direction.

What three words would you use to describe our charity? 

Life savers.  Angels.  Good vibe.

What would you say to people who are considering donating to our charity so we can support even more local people? 

Your donations, love and care are very valuable and needed.

It helps so many people in different ways.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about you, your story, or your experiences with Caritas? 

My story is ongoing and moving up.  The staff are very kind and always here.  My progress hasn’t always been linear and it’s hard to ask for help again if the first route didn’t work out.  But you’re always here and I feel like I can always come here.  Thank you.

Read more about our campaign to see an end to homelessness and find out other ways to get involved.