Sam's Story

Sam* was an 18 year old male who had been asked to leave the family home. He had been staying on a friend’s sofa temporarily until this arrangement broke down. He was now faced with the prospect of sleeping rough; Sam also had stage 4 chronic kidney disease, and wore a catheter. He needed a safe place to stay, as well as support with his housing application, and was referred to Breathing Space.

Sam spoke to Breathing Space over the phone, and told them that he had applied for a room at a supported housing project, but wouldn’t hear the outcome to his application until the following day. Breathing Space were able to secure short-stay accommodation for Sam at a hostel, so that he had somewhere to stay until he heard back from the housing provider. Sam’s application was approved the next day, and Breathing Space helped Sam to move in, providing him with essential items such as pots, pans, and bedding.

Breathing Space also offered ongoing support for Sam if he felt it was needed. Sam disclosed issues with his mental health, and was prescribed medication to help with this.  Sam was able to manage his physical health very well, and was confident in managing his kidney disease, knowing when to seek medical attention if necessary.

Some months later, Sam was evicted from his housing provider. Sam met with Breathing Space again so that his needs could be assessed, including accommodation, mental and physical health, and life skills.

Breathing Space were able offer Sam a place in a respite bed, and introduced him to a LEAP coordinator, who helped to look at his educational needs and life skill training. Sam completed life skill courses covering topics such as cooking, budgeting, paying bills, drug and alcohol misuse, and sexual health awareness.

Sam said that he thought accessing a mental health worker might be beneficial for him, so Breathing Space put in a referral for support; soon after, Sam was allocated a mental health worker.

The possibility of moving back into the family home was also discussed. A mediation service between Sam and his family members was offered, but Sam didn't think it was needed, and thought that having some time away from his family had helped the strain on their relationship.

After much thought, Sam decided that it was time to return to his family home, and that Breathing Space had helped to make that possible. Breathing Space made follow up calls to Sam following his return home, and offered support if he ever needed it in the future.

If you are in a similar situation to Sam, get in touch with us today to see how we can help you: http://www.breathingspacelancs.org.uk