Resident Annie’s Resilience

My name is Annie, and I want to tell you a short version of my story and how sometimes being homeless can have a bad ending, particularly when you are a woman and don’t have a safe place to live.   

I have lived in Merton since 2008, in a privately rented property with very poor housing conditions. In 2021, my mother was diagnosed with dementia, so I spent 3 months looking after her. On my way back to Merton, I found myself homeless with 2 children.   

Shortly after that, I was separated from my children who went to live with their dad. I started sofa surfing between Lambeth and Merton at friends’ places, however, the last friend’s house I stayed at turned into a nightmare. I was a victim of assault and due to this incident, I suffered with depression.   

Today, I am feeling much better thanks to the help I have received from different people and charity groups such as the YMCA. I am extremely grateful to be accommodated by the YMCA, as they have given me the opportunity to volunteer and to learn new skills. For example, we could take sewing classes, and I learned to sew at the YMCA – I love it! After many tests of life, stress and struggles, I feel surrounded by a supportive team and wonderful residents.   

I am currently waiting for stable accommodation, so that my children will be able to visit me.