Farah’s story shows how quickly life can become unstable, even when someone is doing everything they are asked to do.

After being granted refugee status, Farah was informed she may be eligible for social housing and took the steps required to apply. She registered through the local system, but delays meant her account could not be verified before the Christmas period. At the same time, she had already received an eviction notice from the accommodation provider managing her asylum housing. Despite giving the housing department advance warning of the eviction date, the delay left her with no stable plan in place.

When the eviction date arrived, Farah had to rely on short-term emergency arrangements: a hotel for one night, followed by staying with a host family for two weeks. It was an uncertain and frightening period, and she was trying to navigate systems while facing the immediate stress of homelessness.

Farah found NCNW through referrals from local services and was advised to apply quickly due to waiting lists. After an assessment and a short wait, NCNW offered her an en-suite room in one of their Warrington properties. Staff helped transport her and her belongings and supported her to settle in. Farah describes the accommodation as a haven in the middle of anxiety and uncertainty.

What stands out in Farah’s experience is that the support did not stop at a room. She describes regular welfare calls that made her feel cared for, as well as occasional food packages when needed. Farah also began property pathway training while in the accommodation, and she accessed counselling sessions for additional support as she worked to stabilise her wellbeing and move forward. She describes the overall support as a lifeline.

Farah’s move-on journey has not been simple. Once her housing account was active, her support worker helped with bidding and advised on additional local housing options. However, changes in priority banding and high demand meant she did not receive an offer for a long time. During this period, Farah moved within NCNW accommodation as her needs and options changed, including time in a studio and then an independent flat, with continued support through the process.

Today, Farah describes herself as gradually rebuilding her life. Her mental health currently limits her capacity for paid work, and she finds the job application process demoralising. However, she has continued contributing through voluntary and charity work, which gives her a sense of belonging and purpose. She explains that once she is settled in a permanent home, she expects to feel more capable of returning to paid work.

Farah would recommend NCNW to others and says she already has. She speaks with gratitude and hopes NCNW continues to thrive, recognising that she would not be where she is now without the support provided.

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If you are facing housing insecurity or homelessness, support is available.