Like everyone who turns to this supportive charity, each person’s story is unique. Many of their clients originate from professional backgrounds and Joe was no different. He had previously spent five years in The City as an IT Recruitment Consultant and then lost his job. Already struggling with drug addiction as well as mental health issues, he now had financial difficulties which led him to sofa surfing from mid – 2017. Within a year he found himself with nowhere to go and no one to help and was offered a temporary bed in a hostel. 

 
The Council then referred Joe to Elmbridge Rentstart. Following a meeting with the charity and receiving support and advice, Joe was fortunate enough to be offered a flat! He moved in with his ‘Starter Pack’ the following week. 

After settling into his new home, Joe was offered the chance to volunteer at Elmbridge Rentstart in The Hub (a drop-in facility for homeless and vulnerably housed local people). 

 
With his insight and understanding he quickly became a valuable member of the team. This turned into a permanent position where Joe is now an outreach worker, providing help to homeless people in the borough.

He is the first to admit that his passion to support others stems from the invaluable assistance he received from the charity. 

“Social and economic factors play such a huge part,” says Joe. “At Elmbridge Rentstart we work with our clients to understand the particular circumstances that led to them becoming homeless and we help everyone we possibly can.” 

In the last 12 months, Elmbridge Rentstart have ​seen a significant rise in the number of people needing housing, with 154 clients housed and supported during 2018. 

Joe is participating in this years ​Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46​ to fundraise and further support the essential work necessary to end homelessness in the borough.