Kevin spent over three decades working in the City of London before making an initial career change to become a painter and decorator. Then the covid-pandemic hit and work dried up, so Kevin took a role as a delivery driver for Waitrose. It was during this time that the seeds for a new path were planted.

“When I was delivering during lockdown, I saw how isolated people were. It really hit me – and I started thinking, I want to do something that makes a real difference in people’s lives.”

It was a family connection who suggested Kevin should look at roles at HARP after a conversation about wanting a career change. Kevin started out working in the Bradbury day centre before becoming a HARP Navigator as part of our Street Outreach Team.

“Although I hadn’t got any direct experience, I think my life experience and maturity helped me get the role, HARP values people who have life experience to bring to the organisation”.

As a navigator, Kevin is often the first person to meet individuals who are rough sleeping, whether on the streets or bedding down in bin sheds. His role involves outreach on the streets, relationship building, key working, and supporting people through their initial steps with HARP.

“For me, the most powerful part is meeting someone at their lowest point and helping them take that first step forward. Watching people slowly get back on their feet, it’s humbling.”

The job isn’t easy, Kevin admits, and resilience is essential. But for him, the rewards far outweigh the challenges.

“It can be hard. You see people in very difficult situations. But the successes? They make it all worth it. Watching someone recover, it’s incredible.”

The Skills Behind the Work

Kevin believes the navigator role demands a particular kind of person: someone patient, tolerant, and non-judgmental.

“You’ve got to understand where people are coming from, why they might be using alcohol or drugs. I’ve lost two close friends to drugs. I tried everything to help them. That experience helps me connect with the people we support.”

His work also includes supporting people with no recourse to public funds (NRPF), helping them access essential services like EU Settled Status or organisations such as Migrant Help. The job is varied and hands-on, with shift work ranging from early mornings to late nights, and includes collaborating with external partners including local soup kitchens like SVP and One Love.

“Sometimes I’ll see someone I’ve worked with before and help them find their way back to HARP. That ongoing connection makes a big difference.”

A Culture of Support

“HARP has a great team, people care. If you’re having a bad day, there’s always someone there to talk to. You’re never on your own.”

Proud Moments and Powerful Stories

One of Kevin’s most meaningful cases involved two Czech men, Peter and Michael, who had been trafficked into slave labour in the early 2000s.

“They’d been exploited and left with nothing. This case is ongoing but I’m learning so much about the issues surrounding immigration. I’ve been working with them for many months as they have no recourse to public funds so all the help we can get them is from charitable organisations until they secure their right to remain status.

Seeing where they are now – getting better, moving on – it’s why I do this.”

Thinking of support work?

For those thinking about joining the homelessness sector, Kevin is honest but encouraging.

“It’s tough. You need people skills, patience, and a lot of empathy. But the rewards – seeing someone recover, take back control of their life – those moments stay with you forever.”

Kevin is proud to work at HARP and in the homelessness sector more broadly. His story is a testament to the power of lived experience, compassion, and second chances, not just for the people he supports, but for himself too.