Watford New Hope Trust

I've been in a cluster flat since May 2006. I came out of prison having served two and a half years and had nowhere to go.

I had nothing
I had lost my rented place and my business. I had nothing. So I went back to live with my Mum. I didn't find that easy as my dad died 12 years ago and my Mum has since remarried. I didn't get on well with the new family and I thought I would lose it if I stayed. I knew someone who worked with homeless people and they referred me to the Trust. I got an interview with the manager of the night shelter. Then I got a place in a cluster flat.

I like being here but I have an eight year old son and he can't stay in the flat so I really want to move. I only get to see him for a couple of hours after school. I would love to get a place where he could stay for the weekend.

I run the flat a bit like the military. I get the boys up in the morning so they're out for work or College on time each day. I keep it really clean. I get on well with the other flat mates. We have our curry nights and our nights playing golf on the PlayStation.

I have a stepping stone to something better
I enjoy a bit of banter with the staff. They are always here for you and if you are short one week they are flexible. They helped me sort my money out from the council and the benefit office.

Ten years ago I had my own business but when I left prison I had no money, no references and no accommodation. I had lost my licence and my job had involved driving. I have to start all over again now. When I came here I was unhappy because of what
had happened at home. Being here has given me my own space and I can use it as a stepping stone to something better, to having my own place again.