Streets of London Tackling Homelessness

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Chris

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Chris, 59, had a background as a mechanical engineer but had not been in work for more than ten years. He suffered from memory loss, as well as depression. Through the Jobs Club at C4WS, he expressed an interest in construction work, and was able to take part in a practical course and was also matched with a mentor.

The new skills he has developed through the course and the positive relationship he developed with his mentor have changed things for him dramatically. He is now going on to work towards a construction certificate and is also volunteering supporting other guests at C4WS. Although the six month mentoring scheme has ended, he and his mentor have remained friends, and Chris says that he no longer feels worthless for the first time in a long time.

What people say

The course was life-saving. Getting to know new skills which I am still learning now through painting and decorating, brick-laying, plastering and rendering – it saved my life – fantastic! And [my mentor] is like my best friend…I mean that.

Chris