Kieran worked as a Community Safety Officer with the City Council before he became homeless, often working with HARP. He never imagined at that time that he’d be on the receiving end of our services. Read his story:

How did you come to use HARP’s services?
I was living in a house of multiple occupancy that was rat-infested. After complaining to the landlord countless times, I eventually took the matter to court regarding the poor living conditions we, as tenants, were enduring. During this period, I withheld my rent to make a point. Despite our court case and his subsequent improvements, once I began repaying the withheld rent, the landlord still evicted me as he saw me as a trouble maker.

I ended up sleeping in Southchurch Park for a while and later found a spot at East Beach. HARP’s outreach team frequently came to find me, offering hot drinks and support. I also visited the Bradbury Day Centre and HARP’s night shelter in Chalkwell last year, grateful to be somewhere warm.

Around that time, I broke up with my girlfriend. To be honest, I hit rock bottom and attempted to take my own life. After several months of sleeping rough, HARP managed to find a room for both me and my support dog Lady.

Lady means everything to me, I’d honestly rather sleep outside than lose her.

His journey with HARP

Since then, I’ve been living with HARP. I’ve now moved into a HARP house in Westcliff, sharing the space with a few others. It’s great – we all get along, and I have the support I need to rebuild my life. I’ve even started volunteering with HARP, and I’m hoping to get back to work soon.

What would you say about HARP?
I can’t praise them enough. When I was working, I used to collaborate with HARP when I was a Community Safety Officer at the council. I never imagined I’d be on the receiving end of their services. They’ve done so much to help me, providing me with a place to stay while I get back on my feet. I feel stronger now than I have in a long time.

What are your hopes for the future?
I have a diagnosed mental health condition and severe arthritis, so I don’t think I can return to my previous line of work. Still, I’m optimistic about finding a new job. Volunteering has been a good first step, and I’d love to have my own place again at some point.

It’s strange how quickly life can change – you can have a stable job, a partner, and a secure future, and then your world turns upside down. I’d urge anyone in need to seek help from HARP. Everyone there is kind and passionate about what they do, and they genuinely care about you. Many of the people at HARP now feel like family. If I’m having a bad day, I can stop by, say hello, and instantly feel better.