When Ella came to the UK from Zambia, she had hoped for a better future. She had secured a cash in hand job and was able to support herself and her family back home. "When COVID-19 happened, I struggled to get work. I had no recourse to public funds so found myself on the streets. I found Providence Row when I was at my lowest and was sleeping rough. I was able to get access to the showers and sanitary products. I missed having showers - something that I realised I had taken for granted, having my period is awful when I have nowhere to go, especially when I am uncomfortable and just want to lie down. I have been able to get access to food in the day which gives me one less thing to worry about. The staff in the Advice and Support team have been so helpful. They have got in contact with solicitors on my behalf and made sure that I know my rights. Although my options for getting my stay are not possible without me returning home, it has been really helpful to have the support that has been provided. Access to a hot meal and just something as simple as having a conversation with someone. Providence Row have never made me feel like a homeless person, just a person that needs a helping hand."
Names and faces have been changed to protect the vulnerable people we work with.