At Jimmy’s, moving on from homelessness means more than finding a place to live—it means having the support to stay there. Our Housing Team Lead, Matt, and his experienced team of housing support workers are dedicated to helping residents transition to more independent accommodation, both within Jimmy’s and beyond.
Matt brings not only professional expertise, but lived experience.
“I’ve worked at Jimmy’s for 7 years, but I’ve been involved with the organisation for 14. I work directly with residents, building lasting relationships. Sometimes people cycle through addiction and homelessness for decades—but our door is always open. It can be tough, but my motivation comes from the success stories. Like Eamonn, who overcame a £500-a-day drug habit and now lives independently, completely drug-free. Even small progress, like answering a phone, is a big achievement for our residents.”
As a recovering addict himself, Matt deeply understands the grip addiction can have.
“People prioritise their substance, which leads them to miss appointments or fall behind in life. I know firsthand that withdrawal—or ‘rattling’—is a painful, physical process that keeps people from functioning normally.”
Many of our residents become homeless due to addiction, mental health challenges, or financial hardship. Matt and his team work alongside staff at East Road and 451 to provide vital support. One key part of this is our move-on houses, where residents are given a stepping stone to rebuild their independence. To succeed, residents need life skills, a willingness to change, and support in managing substance use.
Each move-on or modular home offers tailored support. Residents are given food parcels and rent-free weeks to help them settle in and start fresh. From there, Matt works to connect each individual with professional help and ensure they’re living in a safe, stable environment.
Unfortunately, the housing crisis in Cambridge creates real barriers. The shortage of social housing and the high cost of living mean many people stay at Jimmy’s longer than expected—even when they’re ready to move on.
“My role is challenging but incredibly rewarding. One of the highlights is seeing people get into recovery. When someone turns a corner—whether from alcohol or heroin—you can tell. The way they speak, the way they carry themselves. Something clicks. For some, it never clicks, and that’s heartbreaking. But we do everything we can to give people that opportunity.”
“If you give people a chance—and don’t judge them—you give them a foundation to move forward. It doesn’t always work the first time. I went through eight detoxes before I cracked it. If someone had said after the third, ‘you’re done,’ I might not be here now. No one gave up on me. I’m grateful for that, and I carry that into my work every day.”
Help Us Keep That Door Open
People like Matt are proof that recovery is possible with the right support—and a second, third, or eighth chance. At Jimmy’s, we never stop believing in the people we serve.
👉 Donate today and help us offer housing, hope, and lasting change.
Let’s make sure no one is left behind.