Meet Michael

With the support of Browns, Michael is no longer homeless and has rebuilt relationships with his family.

At 31 years old, Michael was street homeless with an alcohol and drug dependence who was struggling to break the cycle.

The issues they were facing:

Michael was referred to us by Thames Valley Police. He had suffered a breakdown of his relationship with both his wife and mother. He had no form of identification and therefore was unable to open a bank account or secure employment. After years of abstaining, he was back to using illicit drugs and had alcohol dependency. He was also suffering from severe anxiety and depression.

Michael came to Browns and was supported with:

• Scheduling and attending GP appointments with him in order to help address his mental and physical health problems.
• Attending alcohol and drug services appointments with him in order to help address his underlying substance abuse issues.
• We found him a rental property and supported him with the processes of securing the tenancy and moving in.
• We funded travel to London so a passport could be acquired for work purposes.
• We successfully bridged a gap in service provision during the Covid-19 lockdown, as his local drugs and alcohol services were running a reduced service. We provided support throughout lockdown after he presented with increased anxiety and was physically deteriorating & using drugs again.

Michael is rebuilding his life and relationships

We are pleased to say Michael has now successfully secured sustainable accommodation and employment. He has addressed his mental health issues, has been prescribed medication and is complying with his treatment plan. He continues to engage with drug and alcohol services, including taking his methadone daily. He is also abstaining from alcohol. Perhaps most importantly of all, due to the progress made and sustained, he was able to rebuild his relationship with his mother, wife, and children.

“I really cannot thank you all enough and it feels good to be where I am and also that I can call for advice and guidance should I ever need it – working with Browns was the best thing for me.”

*Names have been changed for confidentiality