Peter’s Story

“I want to show people there’s a way through.”

In October 2022, Peter’s long-term relationship ended. Within weeks, he also lost his job at Southend Council’s Parks department. With nowhere else to go, he found himself sleeping rough in the very park where he had once worked.

“I was devastated and felt completely helpless.”

HARP’s street outreach team found Peter and supported him into temporary accommodation. He was matched with a support worker, Lily, who helped him navigate the practical challenges that suddenly felt overwhelming, from sorting benefits and understanding housing options to thinking about work alongside existing health conditions.

“I’d never had to deal with any of that before. Lily helped me figure it out, without judgement.”

Finding structure and purpose

As Peter began to rebuild, he joined HARP’s gardening project. It offered structure, routine and a sense of connection at a time when all three were vital.

“I needed a reason to get up in the morning. I didn’t want to fall into bad habits.”

Getting back to work

A few months later, Peter secured a part-time job. From there, he began picking up private gardening work. Three years on, he continues to maintain those gardens and is steadily building his own self-employed business.

“The support and care I received along the way made a real difference.”

Giving something back

Today, Peter volunteers with HARP’s gardening recovery group alongside running his own business. He now has a permanent place to live and is looking forward to having his children visit.

“I got so much from HARP. Seeing people go through what I went through… maybe I can help show them there’s a way through.”

For Peter, having a stable home has been key.

“Having a settled base gives you direction. Without it, it’s hard to know where you’re going.”

If you or someone you know needs support, visit harphomelss.org or come to the Bradbury Day Centre, open 365 days a year.