DHI’s Reach service provides essential support in Bath & North East Somerset for people with housing issues.
Susie avoided homelessness thanks to the support of Reach. She had fled to Bath in April 2024 to escape an abusive relationship. “I was going to stay with some people, but it all went terribly wrong,” she recalls. “I found myself completely homeless. I was very frightened and scared.”
A chance encounter in a park changed everything. “A lady saw me crying, and I explained what was wrong. She told me to speak to Reach at the One Stop Shop drop-in.”
Susie followed the advice and was quickly connected with support.
Jeremy Palmer, Senior Support Worker at Reach, began working with Susie straight away. “Jeremy spent a lot of time with me, helping me understand the process and communicating with BANES and other agencies. Eventually, I was recognised as homeless and offered temporary accommodation at the YMCA.”
Susie was later offered a permanent home in Weston, Bath. “I now live in a lovely bungalow, and I’m very grateful for the support I received from Reach and other organisations.”
Reach changed her life, says Susie. “There were times when I wasn’t sure what would happen next, but the help I received made a real difference. I’ll always appreciate the support and guidance I was given.”
Susie encourages others in similar situations to seek help. “There is always hope,” she says. “Jeremy helped me, Reach helped me, and other organisations too. It’s comforting to know that people are working so hard to make our communities a better place.”
Jeremy says, “I’m really happy we were able to support Susie in finding a stable home. It’s fantastic to see that she’s settled into her bungalow. Seeing how our support genuinely changes lives is one of the best things about my job. It’s why I’m so passionate about this service.
“I’d encourage anyone else who’s experiencing housing difficulty in BANES to get in touch – we can use our local knowledge and experience to help them get the right support.”
To refer someone or get in touch with Reach yourself, call 01225 422156 or email info@dhireach.org.uk
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