"Hope into Action helped me rebuild my life" - Frank

After leaving prison, I was on parole, had a flat and a job, and a mentor who I believed worked for a religious organisation. He arranged for me to live and work with them, so I gave up my flat. But it wasn’t what I’d been told—it was a business. When I fell out with someone there, they made me homeless, dropping me in Norwich.

As a “volunteer” with accommodation provided, I had no employee or tenant rights. My probation officer and the Council refused to help, saying I’d made myself homeless. I spent six weeks paying for bed and breakfasts, contacting every organisation I could, desperate for housing. If I’d slept rough, I could have been recalled to prison for at least three years.

My mentor attended a meeting and happened to sit next to Rachel, a Hope into Action Empowerment Worker. Hearing I needed accommodation and was in hospital for a liver transplant, she began the referral process. After interviews, I was accepted. The stress lifted, and I could focus on recovery, keeping clean, eating well, and regaining strength.  

Prison had left me with institutionalised habits, so I had to relearn basics like budgeting and housework. Even buying bleach was new to me. Slowly, I began to see a future.

I now hope for permanent accommodation and to use my skills for good. I want to help others in my position, showing there is a way forward.

Hope into Action is more than accommodation it’s a gateway back into society. Through the church’s welcome, practical support, and guidance, I’ve regained stability, belonging, and purpose.