Isla and Casper were homeless, they had recently lost their jobs and their home as the accommodation they were in was tied to their jobs…………….

Client Profile: 

Isla and Casper were homeless, they had recently lost their jobs and their home as the accommodation they were in was tied to their jobs. The couple did not have children, were not vulnerable, had no health issues, and were not on any benefits. The couple was sofa surfing for a while, however, this came to an end and they ended up homeless in Harlow living in a tent.

They were staying with friends for a while, but that came to an end, and they had nowhere to go. The couple had been living in a different county when they were working and were driven by an acquaintance to Harlow and left there. The client said they had no money and didn’t know where to go. They were directed to a local homeless charity and given a tent. The couple slept in the tent overnight and came to the foodbank the next day.

Reason why client needs advice: 

The couple was staying with friends for a while, but that came to an end, and they were now homeless. The couple had been living in a different county when they were working and were driven by an acquaintance to Harlow and left there. The client said they had no money and didn’t know where to go. They were directed to a local homeless charity and given a tent. The couple came to the foodbank, for help with their situation.

What we have done to help the client:

Our Adviser explained to the couple that as they did not have any connections with Harlow and were not vulnerable, they would not be able to apply for social housing in this area.

We assisted the couple in making a homelessness application to their local council and advised them of their rough sleeper and homelessness policy. As the temperature outside had dipped to below zero, the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) was also triggered.

An emergency food parcel was given to the couple, and we signposted them to other charities within the foodbank which helped the couple with warm coats, blankets, and toiletries.  

Whilst the couple were collecting their essentials, a local businessman (known to the foodbank) was donating. He struck up a conversation with the couple and after finding out one of their skills, he invited them to an interview for a job.

Outcome:

The couple was contacted by SWEP and placed in emergency housing for a few nights.

Their local council helped Isla and Casper with a deposit and 6 weeks' advanced rent payment to help secure accommodation, this helped the couple secure a private tenancy within Harlow.

Isla and Casper have now found new jobs.

The couple contacted our adviser and stated they have been helped more than they ever expected and are very happy to now be a member of such a kind and caring community.

NB: Names and certain details have been changed to protect our clients’ anonymity.