My name is Carla. I am 49 years old and have been living at Calico’s supported living property for the past three years. Since moving into my new house, I’ve discovered a sense of freedom and a sense of community. Despite facing difficult and abusive relationships, mobility issues and battling anxiety, my journey has led me to have peace and a safe secure environment. I face mobility issues daily and rely on a walking aid, I require care and support most of the time. Additionally, I struggle with anxiety and epilepsy. Despite these challenges, I remain resilient and determined to live life to the fullest. Prior to moving to my new home provided by Calico Homes, I experienced difficulties in

My daughter and I moved to the UK from Russia a few years ago. I couldn’t speak much English and we didn’t know anyone here. We were quite alone. Through Downtown, I was about to meet new people, practise my language skills and grow in confidence. They offered me advice and support and then helped me to find a job as a Cleaner so I have stable income. My story has taught me not to be afraid of asking for help and to keep talking to people. That way you will find the support you and your family need to live a happier life.

Initially myself, my back then boyfriend and our baby son applied for a Calico home as we were a young family starting out, we rented until my then fiancé developed a hernia which prevented him from working, our then only source of income. We were forced to move in with his parents due to affordability; this was very overcrowded as we were living in one room, affecting my mental stability. My local Sure Start helped us with floating support, we applied with Calico and lived with my partner’s family for 6 months before securing our Calico home and my partner was fit enough to return to work after surgery. We love the home we live in; we have lived in

I took a leap of faith in March 2023 to leave the DWP after 22 years of dealing with a wide variety of benefit claims and customers to accept a new role at Calico as a Customer Service Officer in the Contact Centre/Reception. I enjoy the huge variety of queries that this role brings and the constant daily interaction that I have in helping (sometimes very vulnerable) people. No two days are the same and I gain immense job satisfaction from this. I have benefited from being surrounded by supportive managers, a cohesive team and sound mentoring by experienced members of staff which enabled me to successfully pass my probation period with flying colours. My first day at Calico was

My experience with Calico started through SafeNet Domestic Abuse services which helped me to build a better life. Calico initially helped me with supported housing and to live in a safe environment. I now volunteer for Calico and hope to use this as a stepping stone for the future. My story has given me a sense of hope and has proven that I can overcome my obstacles. My experience shows that there is help available and that Calico made a massive difference in rebuilding my life. I hope my story inspires others to seek help and guidance to move onfrom domestic abuse.

Growing up, my life was shadowed by my Dad’s alcoholism. From as early as I can remember, I sensed that he was different from other dads, but as a child, I couldn’t quite put my finger on why. As I grew older, it became clear that my Dad struggled deeply with his mental health. From a young age, I took on responsibilities when I stayed over, that most children never face. Caring for my Dad, helping him with his household responsibilities, and dealing with the emotional weight of his illness forced me to grow up quickly and develop a strength that has carried me through many challenges. While other kids talked about their Dads picking them up from school or