Liam has been living at Jimmy’s East Road shelter for nearly five months. Before that, he spent four months rough sleeping in car parks or wherever he could get his head down. Reflecting on that difficult time, he describes his feelings in three words: hopeless, despairing, and angry.
“I had been homeless before in big cities,” Liam explains. “But I had always managed to find somewhere to get through the night—a car, someone’s house, a squat, or a drug address. Eventually, I decided I had to leave the big cities. There’s so much deprivation, and I knew I needed to make some changes in my life.”
Liam arrived at East Road and was immediately supported by our professional team. He was given a warm drink and some food, a bedroom he could feel safe in and a dedicated support worker to help identify what he needed to break the cycle of homelessness.
The Power of 24/7 Support
A crucial part of this support comes from staff who are available around the clock. Liam notes:
“I’ve lived in supported accommodation before, but I never felt able to really talk to anyone. At Jimmy’s, the staff helped me open up. They reassured me, helped me consider other ways of living, and taught me how to be around people and respect their feelings and needs. It was a lot to learn at first, but it was invaluable.”
Learning and Giving Back
Liam has also been taking steps to gain new skills joining his first first aid course held for staff, volunteers and residents at East Road.
“I’m learning as much as I can, not just for myself, but to support others experiencing homelessness. Having been through it, I now connect with people differently. I stop and give them time in a way I wouldn’t have before. Just interacting and showing people, they’re not alone can make a huge difference.”
Looking Ahead
Since arriving at Jimmy’s East Road, Liam says he has felt cared for, hopeful, and safe.
“It’s as simple as that. You have a safety net, rather than feeling like you’re battling the world every day.”
Looking to the future, Liam hopes to live a positive, productive life:
“I want to deal with my health issues and get as much support as I can, to live a better life.”
Jimmy’s East Road has not just provided Liam with shelter—it has given him the tools, support, and confidence to rebuild his life. His story shows the profound difference stability, care, and community can make for someone experiencing homelessness.
Support People Like Liam
You can help more people like Liam find safety, hope, and the chance to rebuild their lives. Every donation makes a difference—from providing a safe bed for the night, to accessing vital support services.
Donate to Jimmy’s Cambridge today and help someone take their first step toward a brighter future.