I have been on & off the streets for 20 years. I remember leaving prison with £92 cash on me with no idea where to go. I got on a train and went to Brighton when I got off I visited every pub in the road leading down to the beach.
In the evening I curled up under the pier and dragged pebbles around me I wasn’t sure if I was going to wake up but that didn’t seem to matter to me at the time.
Thankfully I did wake up and I decided to try & find some help. I didn’t know where to go or what to do so I spoke to a Big issue seller. He told me what was available in the town.
I then met a faith based outreach team which I believe started me on my journey of faith as well. It saved my life I got clean & off the streets that was 10 years ago. If it wasn’t for that Big Issue seller knowing where I could get help I may not be here now.
My life has moved on I am in contact with my children I have a home and I’m getting married soon, amazing. I thank God for him looking after me all this time. I really want people to understand the importance of knowing what’s available in the town to help someone who is lost. It takes just 5 minutes to find out, surely anyone is worth 5 minutes of your time, I was. Thank you.