Andres, a former user of WLDC & a resident at Big House
Andres had been sleeping rough on the streets for a number of years. He claimed political asylum when he first arrived in London back in 2001 but this was initially rejected by the Home Office. Unable to return home he became destitute and depressed, sleeping on the streets around Victoria, Hyde Park and Marylebone. “It was basically horrible and I’m going to do everything not to go back to that situation.”
He first came into contact with us when he heard about the West London Day Centre. “I was on the street. Some guys said “Come with us” but I said that I had no money. They said it was no problem and that you can have a shower and eat breakfast for free there.” Andres began using the showers, the canteen and the health services at the Day Centre before eventually Karen, one of project workers, was able to offer him more assistance. “She talked to me. She said “What do you need?” I said “I want to live here!” So she contacted immigration.” Karen then initiated an appeal on his asylum claim and Andres was soon after granted Indefinite Leave to Remain. “This was when my life changed!” The team at the Day Centre then helped sort out his benefit claim, moved him into temporary accommodation in Victoria and then on to Big House in Camberwell. “Homeless people have to talk to someone. I was always praying “Please God help me!” I think God helped me, especially Karen. She is very nice. She found out a good way for me. I always pray for her!” “If you have a chance to change you need to catch that chance! Now I’m here and I’m quite happy with that and thanks to everyone, many thanks!”
Andres has been living at the Big House for the past five months. He is about to start another English Language course but is anxious to start working as soon as possible. “It’s not good living without a job. It’s quite difficult for me. If you don’t work you can’t find good friends. You need to join with people. If you don’t do that it is very difficult.” Martyn and the team at the Big House are supporting Andres in his continued journey and are helping him look for work.