Income support: Alan's story

My parents were B3Living residents for over 15 years. Once my father had passed away, my mother started to become sick. She was alone and needed a full-time carer, so around eight years ago I decided to move in with her.

December of last year was a hard time for me. I was recovering from Covid-19 and had also lost my mother. At this time my mental health was poor, as well as my physical health.

Alongside battling issues with my health, I also had to organise my mother’s funeral, it felt overwhelming. I was told I could remain a B3Living tenant, however, I would need to move to a one-bedroom home, as it was just me. The thought of having to move was devastating, as I had already lost so much.

I wouldn’t consider myself to be very sociable, however, I really liked my neighbours, they brought out a more sociable side to me and were friendly. In a way, they acted as a support system, they would offer to help me with things like shopping, so I was really worried about the possibility of losing them.

I was put in touch with Michelle, at B3Living, and that’s when everything changed. I was still struggling financially, and I felt embarrassed to ask for help.

I am not someone that would usually rely on anyone for money, so it was hard to speak about, but I am so glad I did. Michelle was able to give me advice about which benefits to apply for, I didn’t think I would be eligible, but it turns out I was, so I was granted income support. Michelle also helped me to stay in my home.

It felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders, I can’t put into words how grateful I am for her support, I will never stop singing her praises.

I am finally able to relax in my home, although my physical health can’t change, my mental health is much better now. I am in a really good place.