From addiction to new beginnings - Andrew

I was a heavy drug user and deep down, I knew I needed help. In 2007, I went to rehab in Bournemouth and things improved for a while. But after a failed relationship, I relapsed. Over the years, I moved in and out of supported accommodation, often getting kicked out. Eventually, my family cut ties. I became homeless.

I never had a blanket. I was always cold. I’d spend my days drinking or using, and sleep standing up, leaning on a phone box. I didn’t care about food just my next fix. I was numb. I lived minute by minute. Thinking too much would’ve broken me.

One day at a soup kitchen, I was told about a Christian rehab in Nottingham. I was broken and said, ‘I’m willing to try anything.’ I stayed there for 11 months and after leaving, I struggled to find housing until a friend told me about Hope into Action.

Moving into my own place was tough, but Patricia, my Empowerment Worker, was amazing. Through rehab, I explored faith and eventually I became a Christian.  Through Hope into Action, I joined Trent Church, recovery groups, and volunteered. My mates noticed the change and they said ‘Keep doing what you’re doing because you’re not a nightmare anymore.’

The biggest change was with my family. They came back into my life. I got to spend time with my dad before he passed. He told me he was proud of me, and I helped carry his coffin. That meant everything.

Sadly Andrew sadly passed away in September 2025 and he is greatly missed by all who knew him. It was a privilege for some of our team to attend his funeral and hear how he had impacted so many people. He will be much missed. 

His family, proud of the transformation they witnessed in his life, have kindly given us permission to continue sharing his story. They hope that by sharing Andrew's journey, it will help others who have experienced rough sleeping and addiction - reminding them that they can find hope again.