Andrew's Story
After months of living without support, Andrew* arrived at Birchwood House feeling anxious about the future and uncertain about what the move would mean for him. Through consistent support from a team who understood what mattered to him and strong partnership working, Andrew has built greater stability, reduced risks to his health and wellbeing and strengthened his relationships with the people closest to him.
Finding Safety
Finding Stability
Fresh Start
Andrew’s Experience
Before moving to Birchwood House, Andrew was struggling to find the right place to call home. Supported living wasn’t able to meet his needs and he spent several months living alone in a bedsit. Andrew was regularly using drugs as a coping mechanism and had several hospital admissions. He was also vulnerable to exploitation and had experienced cuckooing – a form of criminal exploitation where people take over a vulnerable person's home and use it for illegal activity. These experiences affected his sense of safety and stability and left him at risk of harm. Without the right support around him, Andrew found himself in a cycle that was affecting his health, wellbeing and relationships.
At the time of his move, Andrew had a lot on his mind. Moving to a new home meant leaving behind familiar people and routines. He was anxious about what the change would mean for him and wanted reassurance he could maintain important relationships and access the support he needed.
Andrew’s Support
Andrew visited Birchwood twice before moving in – giving him the chance to see the home, ask questions and meet the team. He also brought his parents which helped ease many concerns. They could see the home for themselves, understand how they would remain involved and feel reassured they would continue to visit regularly.
It had been months since Andrew had a settled home which felt like his. The team supported him to personalise his room, making it uniquely his and he soon began to feel at home. With support available 24 hours, Andrew gained the stability he needed.
The team worked closely with the other professionals in Andrew's life, making sure everyone was working towards the same goals. They also helped Andrew understand more about his drug use, its risk and its impacts.
Looking Ahead
Andrew has become increasingly open about his feelings and regularly shares feedback about his support, he tells the team he feels listened to, respected and valued.
"For years we've been in a constant state of worry, but now we feel like we can finally breathe. We know Andrew is safe, well supported and being looked after."
— Andrew's father
Andrew's parents shared that, for many years, visits could leave them feeling worried about his wellbeing. Today, they can see positive changes in both his wellbeing and his future. Knowing he is supported lets them focus on spending quality time together and rebuilding their relationship.
Andrew’s journey continues, but the foundations are in place for a more positive future. With the continued support of the team, strong family connections and a safe home, Andrew is building a life with greater stability, choice and opportunity. For the first time in many years, both Andrew and his family can focus less on crisis and more on what comes next.