As a child I had never even entertained the thought that I may one day find myself without a home. I was estranged from my family home in the summer of 2002 and was forced to stay with a friend for a short while. I often found myself sleeping on sofas and makeshift blankets and sometimes on the floor of my friend's bedroom. Fortunately, I never once had to sleep on the street, but my deepest sympathy goes out to those who do, those whom, on top of being homeless have no friends to support them.
Throughout the experience I endeavoured to continue with my education and chose to voice my dilemma to the head of sixth form. The lady was very supportive and gave me the number for Redditch Nightstop. I put off phoning them for a while, still depending on friends and feeling a little apprehensive. When I phoned I was greeted by a very warm and caring person who invited me to the office to talk about my situation.
When I arrived at the office I felt that I had made the right decision. the pleasant secure environment that I had been lacking was partially fulfilled by the advisors I spoke to that day. I was, on arrival, reassured that if the people there could not help me they would endeavour to find someone else that could.
After explaining my situation I was told that they would be happy to help and by means of immediate support were able to offer me somewhere to stay that very night! I was introduced to a host, who provided me with a bed and evening meal, wash facilities and even breakfast the next morning. The host was amazingly unassuming, a very positive, warm character. I was not always with the same hosts, but after staying with most of them, this was not a problem. All of the hosts were lovely, caring people, insistent on providing first class hospitality! The hosts were always happy to listen to me; giving me some much needed emotional support.
Whilst I was staying with the hosts the advisors were busy back at the office seeking a more permanent tenancy agreement for me. At first I was uncertain about this, mainly because I didn't want to leave the hosts!
I have benefitted greatly from the immense practical and emotional support the scheme was able to offer me. I am currently working on the Management Committee for Nightstop hoping to represent the young people using the scheme having used it once myself. I can only continue in praise for the wonderful work Nightstop has done and is continuing to do.
Kevin Ralley
Many thanks to Redditch Nightstop for permission to use this story.
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