Today, on World Homeless Day, we’re sharing the story of one of the people we support – Shane. Read his story below to find out how he reached out for help marking the beginning of his journey back to independent living.
Shane, 60, has a background in market trading and the creative industries, but found himself facing homelessness when irregular work meant he fell behind on his rent and was evicted from his housing association home.
Rather than sleeping in shop doorways, Shane made the unconventional choice to live in the wild in his tent for almost six years. Shane pitched his tent in a meadow owned by an elderly couple he knew and helped to care for their horses. While this arrangement provided some stability, Shane was aware that it wasn’t a permanent solution. He struggled with the changing world of work and navigating the system that had failed him.
“I didn't think it would go on for so long. I suppose I got myself into a rut.”
Reconnecting with SPEAR
Shane had previously volunteered with SPEAR and even knew our founder, Penny Wade. Shane didn’t want to spend another winter under canvas and moved to a more urban area and decided to reach out for help; he was approached by SPEAR’s Outreach team, marking the beginning of his journey back to independent living.
A new chapter at Penny Wade House
In December, Shane was offered accommodation at Penny Wade House, SPEAR’s hostel for people with complex needs. Despite not having complex needs himself, Shane received comprehensive support from SPEAR staff. He focused on strengthening various aspects of his life, particularly money management, adapting to a non-survival mode of living and focussing on the new path ahead.
Shane viewed being at Penny Wade House as an opportunity to learn and grow:
"It was almost like a little training course for me, knowing what I want to do in the future. I was in Penny Wade and as well as being part of the process of getting off the streets, it was a real insight into others with more complex needs, to listen and learn from them."
Embracing opportunities
Shane appreciated the support that was offered at Penny Wade House. From day one he eagerly participated in courses and volunteering opportunities offered by SPEAR. He completed a peer mentoring course, which he found to be a significant turning point. Shane also attended our health and wellbeing days and completed safeguarding courses, allowing him to volunteer alongside our Homeless Health Link workers.Looking to the future
Shane is now on the verge of moving into his own flat and is excited about the prospect of independent living. His main goals are to secure full-time employment and continue being the best father he can be to his three daughters. Shane aspires to work for SPEAR, viewing it not just as a job but as a vocation:"It just doesn't feel like looking for a job. It's almost like a kind of vocation and way of life because of everything I've been through... If you can spin it around and turn it into a positive and then help others, I don't think you can wish for more."
Words of wisdom
Shane’s advice to anyone facing similar situations is to maintain resilience, engage with support services, and surround themselves with positive influences. He emphasises the importance of volunteering as a way to build confidence, gain experience, and open doors to new opportunities.
Help us end rough sleeping in South West London
We’re working towards a future where rough sleeping is rare, brief, and non-recurring, but until we get there, we need your support, so clients like Shane can continue their journey to independence.
