Formerly Homeless Woman Finds Temporary Shelter, Expresses Relief for Festive Season

A woman who previously resided in her vehicle due to homelessness has expressed optimism about her future prospects following her relocation to a temporary residence. Identified as Rosie, she received accommodation from Roffey Place, located in Horsham, West Sussex. This occurred after she experienced homelessness in January, a situation that arose subsequent to the dissolution of a relationship. Currently residing in transitional move-on housing, she conveyed her gratitude for having shelter during what she described as the “harsh” festive period. “It’s cold and gloomy, and there isn’t really anything to do,” she stated. “It’s either cold food or not eating at all. And you have to pile a load of blankets on to you to try and feel warm.” She further remarked: “Christmas is one of my favourite times of year. So it means a lot to have somewhere that is warm and dry.” She concluded, “The future for me is starting to look brighter and brighter.” She indicated her current inclusion on the council housing list, attributing this progress to assistance provided by the homeless services charity, Turning Tides. Tara Sims, representing Turning Tides, noted that individuals who sleep in their vehicles, such as Rosie, frequently go unacknowledged as homeless due to their reduced visibility. “Because we’re quite rural, hidden homeless is huge because it is not as in your face as it is in a city,” she explained. “There’s people hidden away in the forest, in the woods, sofa surfing and sleeping in cars.” Ms. Sims additionally stated that homeless individuals often experience a significant amount of undeserved “shame” concerning their living situations. For further updates, follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or by WhatsApp at 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available for review.