Darren's Story

I now feel like I have a purpose and am ready to plan a normal future.

Having worked as a painter and decorator for 13 years with a mortgage and young family life took a turn in 2013, my girlfriend and I split up and I lost my home and family. I took the break up very badly and turned to alcohol. I got on a train to Darlington and from there began to wander around the country walking or hitching between places like Peterborough, Newark, Skegness and Brighton, I would stay in hostels or visit day centres but was unable to settle anywhere. I eventually went back to Middlesbrough and tried to make it up with my family but that did not work out either.

In Brighton, I had my tent robbed, so I set off walking again aiming for Exeter but ended up in Winchester at a day centre. They suggested the referral to Emmaus, which I had never heard of but thought it was worth a try to see if I could settle. With the support of Emmaus and particularly the other companions, I now feel like I have a purpose and am ready to plan a normal future.

I am working towards passing my driving test and returning to work painting and decorating which Emmaus is helping me achieve.