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Leaving Homelessness Behind
Dad’s hope for the future thanks to Crisis.
"Pop the kettle on" - four everyday words that former security guard Paddy thought he might never hear again.
The dad-of-two from Edinburgh, was forced into homelessness after his mum passed away and spent two years living in his car.
Paddy said: "I was sleeping in it, cooking in it or eating takeaways, washing in public toilets. It was the worst time.
"I wouldn’t even tell my daughters I was homeless, because of the stigma.
"I had lost my mum, I lost my home and then I lost my job. I thought there was nothing I could do."
But the future was to change when Paddy met Crisis - a national charity set up to support people who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.
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Paddy receiving one-to-one support at Crisis Skylight Edinburgh.Now, the simple pleasure of having friends over for a cuppa is a reminder of just how much his life has moved on - for the better.
Paddy said: "Life has changed a million per cent because of Crisis. They helped me in so many ways - with housing, with benefits, with my health. Just knowing there is someone there in your corner fighting for you and helping you, is an amazing thing.
"Crisis helped me get an apartment. Now my daughters visit me and I can have friends over. I know that might seem like a little thing but just to have someone over for a cup of coffee is amazing."
The work of Crisis is made possible with support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, who have raised more than £18 Million for the charity.
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Crisis centres offer year-round support.Paddy was given dedicated one-to-one support, including help in finding a safe and affordable home, advice on benefits he was entitled to and help in accessing health services.
"I can do anything I want now and I don’t have to worry about things, which is such a relief," said Paddy. "I feel safe and settled."
Crisis estimates that more than 300,0000 families and individuals across Britain are affected by homelessness.
Jess Cadd, Crisis Skylight Edinburgh, said: "Christmas is often a time when people approach us more but homelessness is a year-round challenge and our specialist teams are here offering support every single day.
"We know it might not be straightforward. But thanks to our amazing volunteers and on-going dedicated support - made possible with funding raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery - our members can rebuild and start a life out of homelessness."
*With thanks to artist Hannah Lemon for her help in the making of this film.
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Jess Cadd, who helps members rebuild their lives at Crisis Skylight Edinburgh.Making A Difference
People's Postcode Lottery players are helping deserving causes like Crisis make a difference every single day. Read more about the range of Charities our players support.