Joy’s Story
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‘A big thank you for the support and for taking me in when I needed it!’
Today we’re sharing Joy’s story, one of our lovely residents. Thanks Joy, for chatting with us and for letting us share your story.
Joy was referred to our Supported Housing Project by her CPN in December 2019 after experiencing a difficult time.
‘My CPNs colleague suggested Paperchase, my CPN called and there was a free bed. It was meant to be. Everything fell into place’
The project provides lovely accommodation with support workers working a few hours daily to help with practical and emotional needs. Paperchase is a big house with spacious common areas for everyone to share including a large kitchen diner, lounge and garden.
‘It was a real safe haven, exactly what I needed’
‘Paul one of the support workers sat me down and explained that I had 2 years but If you’re not ready then you’re not kicked out which took the pressure off’
The house is shared by up to 7 residents who support one another and work together on cooking, cleaning and general adulting. Support staff are there to provide guidance and motivation whenever it’s needed.
‘1 month later a new resident moved in, it was a major help in helping me understand myself and it was nice because we were finding our feet together’
‘Covid hit and thank goodness for the sun’
The residents got gardening and spent lots of time outside. There were bake-offs (more about the treats than competition), crafts like jewellery making and walks around the Millpond to get some exercise. Living in shared accommodation meant that the tenants didn’t feel so isolated and so they weathered the storm of what was collectively a very tough time for all our mental health.
After two years of living at Paperchase, Joy’s confidence had grown and she was ready to start a new chapter.
‘I felt a little anxious about living on my own, but also excited, I’d progressed and I was in the right place mentally’
With her Support Worker she found the perfect flat, upstairs in a quiet town centre location, she can enjoy looking out but doesn’t ever feel overlooked. The resident who moved into Paperchase just after her also moved close by, so they’ve continued to support one another through these big life changes.
‘Having wonderful support workers that I already knew really helped.’
Joy is enjoying her new space with a feline friend.
‘My cat is the most loving creature I’ve ever had’ and she has enough room for family to stay ‘so I see the children as often as I can’.
What’s in store for 2026? Get the ‘Back to the 90s playlist’ on and get fit. With her Support Worker
‘We’re meal planning, it’s hard to plan without that support.’
She’ll also be using her experience in interview panels for recruiting support staff to our housing team. Tracey Price CEO said:
‘Joy plays a really valuable part in our recruitment panel, with her experience she knows better than anyone, the skills and character someone needs to be a great support worker so we’re very grateful to have her expertise’.
A big thank you to Joy for all her support, keep it up!